Kids who use drugs are less likely to study and do well in school, and more likely to deal drugs to other students, bring weapons to school, be expelled or drop out of school, and abuse drugs as adults. The cost of drug abuse, individually, to families and to society in general, is immense. Research shows that people who make it through their teenage years without using drugs are much less likely to start using when they are older. That’s why parents, teachers, and school administrators must make a commitment to establishing drug-free schools. A decision in June 2002 by the U.S. Supreme Court expands the authority of public schools to test students for drugs. As part of a comprehensive strategy, drug testing can be one of your most effective tools in helping young people live drug free. You must now decide if you will let it work for your kids. “If testing can help keep kids off drugs and alcohol, if it can help free young minds for learning and allow growing bodies to escape the devastating cycle of dependence or
addiction, it will be a valuable and important new tool.”
John P. Walters, Director
Office of National Drug Control Policy
The White House