Drug testing policy has become a necessity in schools

Recently, as school was getting started, the Nevada R-5 Board of Education established a policy for random drug testing for students in high school and middle school. Those participating in extracurricular and co-curricular activities had to complete a form stating that they agree to participate in the random testing program. The school board did the right thing in establishing this program.

Obviously, the policy may need modifications in the future. It is a shame that such a policy has become necessary. Still, the problem of illegal drug use does exist, even at young ages.

The school board is doing this as an effort to protect the health and safety of the students and as an example for all students. Co-curricular activities are for classroom activities such as field trips. It is good that they are included, as well as the extracurricular activities.

It may be somewhat of a surprise that middle school students are included in the drug testing policy. In reality it is necessary. Many of the kids on drugs are getting started at the middle school ages.

We have seen several people wasting or destroying their lives by the use of illegal drugs and by the abuse of drugs. It is a problem that we have in our society and steps have to be taken to stop it among our young people.

It has been my opinion in recent years that a drug testing program is need for those participating in sports. I support the board coming up with a policy that included all extracurricular activities in addition to just sports and including co-curricular activities.

While, I am of the opinion that the school is doing the right thing, there may be those in the community who have a different opinion. One seventh grader told me that he thought it is stupid. Little does he realize that this is something that is being done to protect him and the other students.

This community is blessed to have a great school system. When our children were young the good school system is one of the reasons we choose to be in this area. Now we have grandchildren attending the Nevada schools.

Since people have been abusing illegal drugs, there has been a greater abuse of prescription drugs. Abuse of prescription drugs is occurring with youth and is a major problem with our youth. Precautions and the proper education need to be taken in regard to the abuse of prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs.

The Nevada school is to be complimented on establishing a drug testing program for implementing the policy. For this the board is worthy of receiving a bouquet of four leaf clovers.