HALL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 502 Random Drug Testing of Extracurricular Participants Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the proposed drug testing program? The Board of Education hopes that the implementation of a drug testing program will help to deter drug and alcohol use by our students. The implementation of a drug testing policy will give our students another reason to say “No” when they are offered drugs or alcohol.

Who will be included in the proposed drug testing program? Students who voluntarily join extracurricular teams and compete in IHSA interscholastic competition such as sports and scholastic bowl. Students who voluntarily join extracurricular groups, that meet outside the school day, and represent Hall High School, such as cheerleading and Devilettes.

Why doesn’t the proposed drug testing program include other extracurricular groups such as clubs? The Board of Education and administration are currently researching the legality of including students who participate in fine arts performances. The Board of Education and administration are in favor of including as many extracurricular groups as legally possible. Co-curricular groups, such as school clubs, are not included in the proposed pool.

Why doesn’t the proposed drug testing program include ALL students at Hall High School? The courts have ruled that drug testing programs may only include students who have voluntarily joined extracurricular activities which are a privilege not a right. Parents of students who are not involved in extracurricular activities may voluntarily include their student in the drug testing program.

What substances will be detected by the drug test ? The test will detect nicotine, alcohol, marijuana, PCP, cocaine, opiates and amphetamines. Urinalysis and breathalyzer samples will be used to test for substance use.

How often will testing take place and who will randomly choose the students to be tested? Random testing will take place weekly on a random day. The day of testing will be randomly chosen by the testing agency. The random selection of students will be computer generated by the testing agency. All students in the program will be eligible for selection each week.

How will the proposed program be kept confidential? The testing agency will only share the computer generated numbers with the superintendent who will share the numbers with the principal on the day of testing. The student names that correspond to the computer generated numbers will only be kept by the principal. Positive test results will only be shared with the student, parent and administration.

What are the proposed consequences of a positive test ? A student who produces a positive test will receive the same consequences that are outlined in the Athletic Code of Conduct. A student who produces a positive test may reduce the consequence if they successfully complete a recognized counseling program.

Can drug testing results be used for any purpose other than a suspension from extracurricular participation? No, drug testing results may not be used for any other purpose (including suspension from school) nor may results be shared with law enforcement agencies. The consequences assigned a positive drug test may not impact an academic grade such as that is assigned to a participant in band, chorus or drama.

When will the proposed drug testing program start? The Board of Education hopes to pass a drug testing policy during the early spring of The administration hopes to implement the drug testing program in August of 2008.

The proposed drug testing policy is in the discussion phase. The Board of Education welcomes your input. superintendent Mike Struna at – or attend the community open forum on January 9, 2008 at 7:00 pm in the Hall High School library.