Friday, June 7, 2013

Random Drug Testing Discussed in Mingo County Schools

MINGO COUNTY, W.Va. -- School officials in Mingo County are hoping to attack the drug problem early on.

The county is planning to implement a new random drug testing policy in the fall.

The policy is similar to what's already been put into effect in Cabell and Putnam counties, Mingo County Schools Office of Student Services Director Drema Dempsey said.

Under the policy, student athletes, students who stay after school for recreational activities, and students who drive to school could be tested.

Officials held a public information and comment meeting at Mingo Central High School Thursday evening.

If students do test positive for drug use, they'll have to participate in a counseling and treatment program.

They'll also not be allowed to drive on school property and no longer participate in their after-school activity.

If adopted, the policy would go into effect in the fall for high school students and the fall of 2014 for middle school students.