Loyalsock Township High School works really hard to keep our students out of trouble, on their feet, and at their best. The random drug testing is a new policy that Loyalsock adopted this 2010-2011 school year.

A form was given to each student at the beginning of the new semester for each student and  his/her parent(s) to sign, explaining the acts of the random drug testing. Although there was much controversy from students and parents about it, the testing was passed and performed its first testing on April 20, 2011. Although it might have been planned for that day, April 20 marks the popular culture recognition of marijuana for the day. There are many who feel this will only make our school stronger and help the students in the long run; while there are others who feel it’s completely unnecessary and not going to be productive in any way.

            The various views of students interestingly span the entire spectrum. Junior Cassaundra Soars felt very strongly and positive about the random drug testing; “I think it’s the best idea Loyalsock Township has ever had. I feel that it will teach students a lesson and make us a stronger school.” In comparison to her view, junior, AJ Fry, gave a very negative note about the testing stating, “this school is turning into a prison. I don’t think this is an effective technique and it will probably show to be unproductive. Drug testing in Loyalsock makes the school district look like they don’t trust any of their students.”

Not only do the students have views on the act, but also the teachers, and it was interesting to listen to their responses as well. Senorita Leid, Spanish teacher here at Loyalsock, stated, “I definitely think the random testing is a good idea; it’ll keep the students on their toes. When I attended high school they did testing all year round, even during the summer time. This testing will teach the students a great lesson, which is exactly what we’re trying to get at. It’s not about getting the students in trouble, it’s about helping them.” 

There are many statistics that show that if kids experiment with marijuana at a younger age, it could lead to harder drugs in the future. So, although students feel that the testing is primarily a punishment, the school really just wants to provide students with needed services.