Pubdate: Thu, 11 Jul 2002
Source: Daily Ardmoreite, The (OK)
Copyright: 2002 Daily Ardmoreite
Contact: http://ardmoreite.com/stText/sendLetter.html
Website: http://www.ardmoreite.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1574
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Testing)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

RULING ON RANDOM STUDENT DRUG TESTS COMES UP SHORT

In a narrow 5-4 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the 
Tecumseh School Board and its drug testing policy. This ruling is 
monumental and far-reaching and could impact several million students 
involved in extracurricular and athletic activities. The ruling, handed 
down June 27, expands a 1995 decision by the court that allowed random 
testing of student athletes. The most recent decision will permit schools 
to randomly test students not only involved in athletics, but also those 
involved in a variety of extracurricular activities ranging from academic 
bowl teams, to band programs to cheerleading and others.

The court, in its ruling this week, stopped short, however, of allowing 
random testing for any student, regardless of whether or not that student 
is involved in extracurricular activities. Several justices reportedly have 
indicated they would like the opportunity to address that issue as well.

Some of those who oppose this decision probably will support some of the 
statements from the dissenting Supreme Court justices who labeled it 
unreasonable, capricious and even perverse.

We support Thursday's ruling handed down by the court.

But, this monumental decision by the court could have a dramatic impact on 
assisting school districts throughout the nation as they deal with drug 
usage. School administrators need all the tools they can to confront these 
problems and we hope they utilize this decision that enhances their 
capabilities to do so but with proper restraint.

- -- The Shawnee News-Star
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom