St. Regis School looks at random drug testing

St. Regis School is looking at implementing random drug testing for students who participate in extracurricular activities including sports and clubs like FFA.

“It was actually some students who approached the school board,” said Superintendent Joe Steele. “They said it wasn’t fair when they were abstaining from drug use and participating next to kids who they knew were using.”

If implemented, students would be subject to drug tests and face consequences if the test comes back positive. There are 15 schools in Montana who currently have random drug tests, including Alberton and Superior. The school board is looking at other school policies to determine what St. Regis may implement such as suspension from activities, how long suspensions would last or if the students would be kicked out of the activity. Any policies would follow the Montana High School Association guidelines.

Mineral County youth, not just those in St. Regis, have a substantial drug problem. There was been a steady rise in the use of prescription drugs according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Meth, drinking, and e-cigarettes also continue to plague area youth.

Steele has been the superintendent for St. Regis over the past four years and said he has seen an increase in the use of marijuana, which is much more potent than it used to be. “Now it’s laced with stuff to get kids hooked quicker and so they (drug dealers) can get them on drugs that are more lucrative,” he said.

In addition to drug testing, school administrators want to see drug education and awareness continue for students. Another problem in Mineral County is the lack of resources to combat the problem. There are not many counseling services in the area to deal with families who may face drug-related issues.

This topic will be discussed again at the next St. Regis School Board meeting on Nov. 15 and at the Dec. 6 Wellness Committee Meeting.