SCHOOL DRUG TESTING OK'D

Cache Board Of Education Calls Step Regrettable But 'Wise'

NORTH LOGAN -- Voicing disappointment in the necessity of such a
change, the Cache County Board of Education voted Thursday to approve
a drug testing policy for any high school student who participates in
Utah High School Activities Association events.

Starting this fall, students who take part in every UHSAA-sanctioned
sport or activity will need to pass a urine test that looks for
several drugs and alcohol. Participation fees will increase by $20 to
help pay for the tests.

"I'm sorry we have to do it, but I think this is a good step, a wise
step," Board President Tamara Grange said.

After the initial testing process, 10 percent of participating
students will be randomly tested each week.

Principals from both high schools and 8-9 centers said they supported
such a measure. All but Mountain Crest Principal Jack Robinson said
their community councils are behind the change as well.

"For us to say that there is not a problem is naive," Robinson said,
stating his individual support for the testing. "It speaks volumes of
where we are as a society, but that doesn't matter. We need to take
steps to protect our kids."

The tests are non-punitive, meaning the students cannot be penalized
academically for testing positive and will not be turned over to law
enforcement. A first offense results in a two-game/competition
suspension and a second offense suspends the student for the remainder
of that activity season.

The Board of Education has mulled over the issue for months and
administrators first began discussing the matter about 18 months ago.
On Thursday, the board opted for the tests to be observed -- literally
- -- by the Bear River Health Department at the individual schools.

Activities recognized by UHSAA includes band, basketball, baseball,
debate, cross country, competitive choir and drama, drill team,
football, golf, softball, soccer, swimming/diving, track, tennis,
volleyball and wrestling. It also includes students who participate in
solo ensemble.

A U.S. Supreme Court ruling allows for students participating in extra
activities to be tested for drugs.

The approximate 1,700 students in ninth through 12th grade in that
district who participate in UHSAA-approved activities would take an
initial test at the beginning of their participation in the event, but
would not need to double test if they participate in more than one
activity, unless chosen randomly.

Robinson said members of his community council have concerns about the
process indicating guilt "before being proven innocent." He said some
parents reportedly feel there will be an uprising about the process.

Athletic directors at both high schools advocate for the tests, which
are conducted at Preston School District and others
region-wide.

"I've had requests from parents that it be done," said Jan Hall, Sky
View's athletic director. "I've had requests from athletes that it be
done."

Hall said coaches struggle when parents and students report an athlete
believed to be using drugs, but nothing can be proved. This, he hopes,
will minimize that problem, as well as possible denials by parents of
their students' usage.

"It's hard to help a student athlete who has a drug problem when his
parents come in and attack you because 'he doesn't,'" he said.

The tests will increase student participation fees from $50 a sport
(or activity) to $70 a year. Each test costs about $18 through the
Bear River Health Department, which covers one initial test for each
participating student. Additional random tests will be covered by Safe
and Drug-Free Schools funds and other means.

The Health Department said there is no increased cost in bringing the
testing equipment to the individual schools, which the district plans
to do. During random testing, the schools can choose which day and
time they'd like students to be tested. Students will not be given any
prior notice.

In addition to alcohol, the tests will look for use of amphetamines,
barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine, methadone, opiates
(OxyContin), marijuana, PCP, propoxyphene and at the individual's
creatinine level.