FILE: JCDB

VOLUNTARY DRUG TESTING FOR ALL STUDENTS IN GRADES 7-12

 It is the objective of the Auburn City Board of Education to assure that all students are given the opportunity to attend school in a safe, drug free environment and that the schools be completely free from the effects and/or the presence of illegal or controlled substances.  The Auburn City Board of Education has determined that preventing substance abuse by students is a compelling educational and community interest.  Substance abuse is a serious threat to student health and safety and is a disruptive influence in the school.  This policy is designed to create a safe and drug free environment for students by seeking to prevent them from harming themselves and others as a result of the consumption of harmful substances.

It is the belief of the Board of Education that providing students with a voluntary program that rewards them for being drug-free will also influence those who abuse drugs to reject them.  The goals of a voluntary drug testing program will be: to promote drug-free students; to educate the student community of the dangers of drug abuse and provide more positive alternatives; to reduce the “demand side” of drug abuse; to improve the communications between youth, police and the community; and to enhance the leadership capabilities of students.

 The Auburn City School Board authorizes the Superintendent, or his/her designee, to develop procedures for the implementation of this policy.    Also, the Board of Education recommends that the Superintendent, or his/her designee, work with students, parents, the Auburn City Mayor’s Office, Auburn City Police, and Auburn Chamber of Commerce to design a program that shall be a cooperative effort between youth, schools, law enforcement, and the community.

 This voluntary program, in no way, is to become a part of any student’s school record/transcript. 

 ADOPTED:  May 11, 2004

 LEGAL REF: