Dissention Dogs Drug Policy Revision for Schools

The Valdez Star: "Dissention Dogs Drug Policy Revision for Schools
By Julie M. Morgan
Star Reporter
SCHOOL BOARD-Opinions on the new drug testing policy presented by the Valdez School Board were met with more questions than answers Monday night as the public and school board members weighed in on the issues regarding the new policy.
The new policy, as written, states, �The school district reserves the right to report violations of the policy to law enforcement officials. When and whether to report a violation to law enforcement officials will be on a case-by-case basis.�
Board Member Dolores Gard suggested the use of tobacco by students is against the law and should be included in the policy.
'This gives me heart burn,� said Gard. 'Law enforcement needs to know when a law is being broken and a case-by-case will not work.'
Board President Duane Edelman said implementing a tobacco policy was going one step too far.
'I like it more relaxed,' Edelman said. 'A policy would be going about it in the wrong way.'
While tobacco is not specified in the policy, it is stated 'The intent of the Valdez City School District is to maintain a drug-free school environment so learning can take place: to educate students so they are aware of the issues and problems related to the abuse of drugs, alcohol and controlled substances.'
One of the few people attending the three- hour meeting spoke of her concerns with the policy to the board.
Parent Sheri Pierce suggested the addition of drug testing for students who participate in sports due to potential harm it could do to other students who travel and are in immediate contact with them.
President Edelman said drug testing student activities would be singling out a group of students and didn't agree with Ms. Pierce.
Ms. Pierce also addressed the board with her concern of singling out stude"