Drug testing in schools is a controversial topic that has been in the news and on the minds of many parents. Drug abuse can have devastating effects on kids, families and society as a whole, and the testing of middle school and high school students provides several benefits.

Prevention

For kids and teens, knowing they may be tested for drugs can act as a deterrent in itself, according to the Student Drug-Testing Institute.

Risk Assessment

Drug testing allows schools to identify young people who may be at risk for developing drug abuse problems and to address the problem before it becomes serious. It also enables schools to find students who already have substance abuse problems and get help for them.

Sharing Knowledge

Instituting a drug testing and education program in schools teaches children about the drawbacks and dangers of illegal drug use, something they may not have known or thought much about previously.

Education of Parents

Some parents don't realize the effect their own habits and attitudes have on their children's behavior. The Student Drug-Testing Institute reports on a survey conducted by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse that indicated that children whose parents use drugs are significantly more likely to use drugs themselves. Drug testing in school can help parents understand more clearly the danger of drug use for themselves as well as their children.

Communication

The subject of drug testing in schools can open lines of communication between parents and students and act as an icebreaker for a difficult topic to discuss.

Source:

Student Drug-Testing Institute

Department of Education: Drug Testing in Schools (.pdf document)