DIVISION'S DRAFT DRUG POLICY STILL UNDER REVIEW

The proposed random drug-testing of student athletes in Garden Valley
Collegiate is still in limbo.

Although there had been talk of having it ready for implementation in the
new year, the lengthy review process has scuttled those plans.

Garden Valley School Division superintendent Dom Wilkins says the draft
policy, the details of which will remain confidential until it is
finalized, is still under review at the provincial ombudsman's office.

"We have been told by the ombudsman's office that we can expect a response
in the new year," said Wilkins.

A response has already been received from the division's lawyer, with
several areas of concern.

"Once we hear back from the ombudsman, both the responses could lead to
modifications in the policy, and it will then go to the board," he said.

If the policy receives board approval, the finalized policy will then be
released to the public.