SAY 'NO' TO RANDOM DRUG TESTING

Schools Should Pursue Action Against Students Who Give Them Probable Cause
To Do So.

Just because the Roanoke County schools can impose random drug testing
on its middle and high school students doesn't mean it should.

During next month's meetings to gauge their reaction, parents should
just say no to the idea, and school officials and other community
leaders should dismiss it.

Schools have a responsibility to maintain a safe atmosphere in which
students can achieve their educational goals. Imposing structure and
rules of discipline in such an environment is essential.

But random testing only serves to undermine students' belief in the
constitutional protection of their civil liberties, such as being
innocent until proved guilty. Without probable cause to reasonably
suspect substance abuse in specific instances, Roanoke County should
steer clear of arbitrary testing.

The Roanoke County Community/Schools Prevention Council, the group
sponsoring the forums and floating the idea of testing, will present
both sides in the debate.

Some county parents have discussed the idea since a U.S. Supreme Court
ruling nearly two years ago allowed random tests for students involved
in extracurricular activities.

Advocates believe random drug testing gives students a reason to avoid
drugs and alcohol. A well-conceived, comprehensive drug awareness and
prevention program for students can achieve the same outcome.

They also add that drug testing can act as an early indicator before
students become addicted. An insightful and observant educator, noting
changes in a student's behavior, can serve the same purpose.

In addition, the deterrent effect of drug testing on student drug use
remains in dispute. As a practical matter, subjecting an entire
student body to random visits to the nurse's office for a test most
likely would arouse greater resentment and skepticism than respect for
officials' concern about youngsters' well-being.

Legally, the Roanoke County school system can impose random drug
testing if it chooses. But just because something is legal, it isn't
necessarily right.