DRUG TESTS TOO COSTLY FOR MISS.

JACKSON, Miss. - A U.S. Supreme Court decision expanding drug testing in
public high schools is not likely to change drug testing policies in
Mississippi because the tests are too expensive, state educators say.

This week's 5-4 ruling allows schools to give drug tests to students
involved in all competitive after-school activities or teams.

Justices said keeping public high school students drug-free outweighs a
student's privacy.

Drug tests had been allowed previously just for student athletes, and only
a few Mississippi school districts give random drug tests.

"I think the main reason you haven't seen more drug testing is because it's
pretty expensive," said Ennis H. Proctor, executive director of the
Mississippi High School Activities Association.

Tupelo High School has created a random drug testing program.

Last year, the school spent over $15,000 to administer $40 drug tests to
378 athletes. Far more students participate in other competitive
after-school activities, such as band.

Tupelo Assistant Superintendent Jimmy Williams said it's too early to tell
if the school will expand its drug testing program.

"I think all children should be tested," Williams said.

"I think reasonable suspicion should be a prerequisite to testing any student."

High school senior Paula Smith, 17, said no prerequisite is necessary
"because they are showing leadership in their schools and they're
representing their classmates and the community."