Pubdate: Fri, 18 Feb 2005
Source: Dothan Eagle, The (AL)
Copyright: 2005 The Dothan Eagle
Contact:  http://www.dothaneagle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3077
Author: Harold Caldwell
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v05.n281.a09.html
Related: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v05.n212.a06.html

'DRUG TESTING IS A BAD IDEA'

Concerning random drug testing of students, the Dothan Eagle editor is
absolutely correct. It is a totally insane idea to random drug test
students in Dothan schools. I was amazed when Superintendent Leon
Hobbs said he would back the idea if that is what the people want.

It is a very indecisive stance probably fostered by the fact that the
state teachers' union has not yet handed down the position school
employees must take.

Why should we randomly test students for drugs? Can we save a young
person from a life of crime and imprisonment? Of course not. All we
would have then would be a known drug user. If he or she does not have
a proper home environment, drug use and imprisonment are probably
inevitable.

Parents who are pushing for random drug testing in school are saying
to me: "My kid may be using drugs and I want you to find out for me."
That is scary. People who want the government to take over their
parenting responsibilities are way out in left field somewhere.

It is not the responsibility of the school to keep children off drugs
or to find out if they are on drugs. Since school is not an industrial
setting, a drug-using student is not a danger to his fellow students.
He or she may be a nuisance, but I don't see how they could be a
threat to life and limb.

Drug testing in school is a terrible idea. It would be a costly
investment with no return on monies invested. It would be a nightmare
to administer. It would lead to dozens or hundreds of lawsuits by
unhappy parents of children whose "rights" have been trampled.

If the parents of Dothan want their children tested for drug use, they
can go to the drug store and buy a home drug testing kit. Then stand
up straight and be a parent.

Harold Caldwell

Dothan
- ---
MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin