Pubdate: Thu, 20 Dec 2007 Source: Daily American (Somerset, PA) Copyright: 2007 The Daily American Contact: http://www.dailyamerican.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4055 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Test) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) SAFETY AND FAIRNESS Dr. Bertha K. Madras, deputy director for the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, held a summit to discuss random student drug testing. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that it is legal for public schools to test those who are in extra curricular activities, such as sports. Random drug testing makes sense for school students. If a student has a drug a problem, it needs to come to light for the parents to address the problem. Another reason for drug testing is fairness among athletes. Students who aren't subject to testing may try dangerous drugs such as steroids to gain a competitive edge. We believe it's important for parents and schools to make sure high school students are not on a dangerous path by abusing drugs. Random drug testing is one way to help young people stay healthy and keep activities fair for all athletes. - --- MAP posted-by: Steve Heath