DRUG-TEST RULING WILL HARM, NOT HELP, STUDENTS

Re: "Court OKs drug tests for students," June 28 news story.

Sadly, this ruling will remove those students who could benefit most from
participating in these activities. Students who use drugs often suffer from
low self-esteem. It is well-documented that students who join soccer, band,
and other extracurricular activities show a rise in self-esteem. It would
be irresponsible to remove these students.

Also, students who use drugs often do so to feel a sense of belonging.
Students who join extracurricular activities have an opportunity to feel
like they belong to something that does not require the use of drugs. It's
counterproductive to kick them off a team and into the open arms of a
waiting drug dealer. Instead of furthering the exclusion of students, I
encourage school boards to find productive ways to include students in
extracurricular activities.

J.R. HAGAN

Lakewood