MT. AIRY, N.C.–Mt. Airy school officials are being proactive before drug abuse becomes a problem in the school district.
The district is considering random drug testing for all students in grades 6–12 who are a part of any extra-curricular activity or drive to school.
Students who test positive for drugs the first time will have complete mandatory drug counseling approved by the Mt. Airy School Board. A second offense will cost the students participation in any extra-curricular activities and a third one will result in suspension for the rest of the school year.
Superintendent Dr. Greg Little says the test will be given at school, but not by school officials. The district is in the process of contacting a third-party.
“They will be tested for both prescription drugs as well as illicit drugs. This is a ten-panel urinalysis test,” Little said.
Little said that if the procedure is approved, it will be used as a proactive measure.
“This is not a gotcha policy. This is about prevention and support,” Little said.
Randy Jackson has three children that attend school in Mt. Airy and feels this would be a good preventative measure.
“I got in a whole lot of trouble when I was in high school. If I would have had this, I think there would have been more guidance, more supervision,” Jackson said.
School Board members are expected to vote on this issue in August.
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