N.C. High School Considers Random Drug Tests for Athletes

Failed tests could result in 15-day suspension from sports

Watauga Democrat

http://www2.wataugademocrat.com/News/story/WHS-may-test-student-athletes-for-drugs-id-011913

Saying the plan had been “a long time coming,” WHS Principal Marshall Gasperson presented the proposal as a way to help ensure student safety, act as a deterrent to drug use and promote integrity among high school athletes.

“Watauga High School believes in integrity — making right decisions,” he said in an interview after the meeting. “Watauga High School athletes are not going to use drugs.”

Because it was the first reading of the policy, no action was taken. But board members spoke favorably about the plan, and a vote will likely be taken Aug. 12.

The policy states that random testing will occur on at least five percent of athletes each year. The school system also may require testing if it has “reasonable suspicion” that a student-athlete is using drugs.

If a student tests positive for drugs — including steroids — or alcohol, he or she will be prohibited from participating in the athletic program for at least 15 school days. Parents will be notified and encouraged to attend counseling sessions with the student.

After the 15 days, the athlete will be retested at the athlete or parents’ expense and may rejoin the team if he or she tests negative. A parent or guardian also must sign a release freeing the school from liability due to injury or illness.

If a second positive test occurs during the student-athlete’s career, the student will be suspended from the sport for the remainder of the season or at least 30 school days.

A third positive test bans the student-athlete from participating in any sport for one calendar year. The student may only rejoin a team if he provides certification that he is drug-free.

A refusal to undergo testing will have the same effect as a positive test, the policy states.

Positive test results will not result in school suspension or the notification of law enforcement, the policy says.

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