SCHOOL CONSIDERS DRUG TESTS

HONOLULU (AP) -- Mid-Pacific Institute is looking into the possibility of a
random drug-testing policy for students.

The goal is to help students who need help, said Rich Schaffer, principal of
the private school in Manoa. Any student who tests positive would be placed
in a treatment program rather than face disciplinary action, he said.

The school's administration is consulting with parents and studying how such
programs worked at schools on the Mainland, Schaffer said.

A few parents have expressed concern about infringing on students' rights,
but overall response from parents has been ''overwhelmingly supportive,'' he
said.

In a message to families, Schaffer noted an increase in the use of crystal
methamphetamine among Hawaii's youth and the potential that even minimal use
can cause brain damage.

The school doesn't believe there is extensive drug use among its students,
but is aware of a few cases, he said.

Tom McKinley, president of Mid-Pacific's Parent Teacher Organization, said
he favors the drug testing idea as long as it leads to treatment and not
punishment.

A decision will be made before the end of the school year.