Schools to Test Students for Drugs

The Standard Times (New Bedford, MA): A controversial plan to test students for drugs passed the School Committee unanimously and could be implemented early next year. The plan to test students for drugs was proposed two years ago by Mayor Kalisz and School Superintendent Longo. At the time, the proposal was seen as a way to prevent and reduce drug use among students in the city's public school system, and act as an early warning system to parents that their child may be using illegal drugs. The Drug Free Student Assistance Program is unique among school drug-testing programs in that it does not have a punishment for positive tests, and is completely voluntary. In fact, program administrator Carl Alves said neither law enforcement nor school officials would be notified of a positive test. Only the parent and the student would be informed. Instead of punishment, a positive test would trigger counseling and treatment.