Meeting on proposed drug testing Feb. 12
By James Moate Endeavor News

As the date for the upcoming public meeting regarding a proposed drug testing policy at Cameron County High School (CCHS) draws nearer, parents and administrators have increasingly been presenting their views on the issue. A special meeting to discuss the policy will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 12 at 6:30 pm in the CCHS library. Public is encouraged to attend.

"It's a big deal for us," said CCHS Administrator Clyde Moate on behalf of the school board. "We want it to be well-developed, thought-out and fair."

Moate noted that there is a strong contingency of parents who believe such a policy would violate the rights of students.

"Some parents have cautioned the district to tread carefully due to risk of infringing upon the rights of students," he said. "Others believe it is absolutely necessary."

Proposed several years ago, the policy was initially shot down by directors because the testing process proposed was cumbersome.

The measure has been gaining support again as administrators and law enforcement officials combine their efforts to combat a significant drug problem in the community.

Now administratos are asking community members to get more involved in the process.

"Nothing is more valuable than community input," Moate explained. "We (the school board and administrators) welcome everyone to come, listen and provide their input. We would love to hear the adults, particularly the parents, share their views on this. Even if they don't talk, I feel they should at least come and listen."

Moate said that at a very minimum people should attend to stay informed on the policy's progress because it is still in the discussion stage.

"It's still being debated," he said.

Moate remarked that if the policy is put into place, it's to help the students, not punish them.

"In my opinion, some of the greatest benefits of the policy would be a perceived deterrent and getting the kids some help if they need it."