AlWood will test students for drugs

The AlWood School Board on June 15 approved random drug testing for students in extra-curricular activities.

AlWood considers music, clubs, organizations, and nearly all activities outside classrooms as extra-curricular.

“We’re not singling out the athlete; this is for all extra-curricular activities,” board member Steve Norberg noted.

Parents can refuse the testing, but their student will not be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activities.

There will be an orientation and informational meeting for both students and parents.

“We haven’t approached students at all, but we’d like to achieve a comfort level,” Middle/High School Principal Jay Bizarri said, “and the orientation should provide adequate information.”

Board member Dan Swanson expressed concern about the follow-up if a student tests positive.

“We need to inform the parents, but provide helpful information,” Swanson said.

Violation of the student policy will apply if a student tests positive.

“This is new to us. We’ll have bumps with it and if the parents have questions, we’ll have to find out the answer,” Supt. Shannon Bumann said.

The program parallels one Cambridge School District - with whom AlWood co-ops several sports - is using.

Cost is $1,275 for 36 weeks.