When did the random drug and nicotine testing policies go into effect?
The SMS and SHS Random Drug Testing Policy was board approved on May 11, 2015 and went into effect the following school year.
The SMS and SHS Random Vaping and Nicotine Testing Policy was board approved on April 13, 2020 and went into effect the following school year.
Where can I find the drug and nicotine testing policies?
These are located in the SMS and SHS handbook.
Why are these random drug and nicotine testing policies in place?
The random drug and nicotine testing was put in place to promote and encourage a drug-free learning environment. These policies are a proactive initiative to give students another reason to say “no” to drug and/or nicotine use and encourage treatment for students who test positive.
Vaping and nicotine was added to the testing policy after seeing an uptick in vaping usage in schools.
Which students are tested?
Any student who meets one or more of the following criteria are required to enter the random drug and nicotine testing pool.
-Participates in a KSHSAA activity
-Drives to or from school (does not take the bus)
-Out-of-district students
-Parental opt-in
How are students selected for the random testing?
The school sends a list of student ID numbers within the testing pool to the testing company. Four times a year, the school requests that the testing company randomly select student ID numbers from the list and sends those ID numbers back to the school. The school matches those student ID numbers to names to administer the test.
How are students tested?
Students provide a hair sample for testing to a school nurse supervised by an administrator.
Can a student continue to practice after a first positive test?
Yes. Students can continue to practice but not compete nor attend events for 21 days after a positive test. Students who test positive are also required to complete a recovery program through PARS after a positive test. Five follow up tests will be scheduled with students who test positive.
Can a student drive after a first positive test?
No. Students are not allowed to drive to or from school for 21 days after a positive test. Students who test positive are also expected to complete a recovery program through PARS after a positive test. Five follow up tests will be scheduled with students who test positive.
How many students get tested?
Forty students per quarter, evenly distributed amongst grades at the high school and 12 students per quarter, evenly distributed amongst grades at the middle school are tested.
Are parents notified before their student is tested?
No.
How far back does the usage track?
Random drug and nicotine testing detects usage from the last 90 days.
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