Drug Testing
JSerra has in place a mandatory alcohol and drug testing program similar to those in effect at various other local private schools. School-wide alcohol and drug testing will take place throughout the school year. Our proactive approach is designed to help achieve a truly safe alcohol and drug-free school. Students using alcohol and illegal drugs pose a threat to their own health and safety, as well as to that of other students. The purpose of this program is threefold:
- to provide for the health and safety of all students;
- to diffuse the effects of peer pressure by providing a legitimate reason for students to refuse to use alcohol and illegal drugs; and,
- to encourage students who use alcohol and illegal drugs to participate in an appropriate treatment programs.
Research indicates that young people need a reason or technique to “say no to alcohol and drugs” while still maintaining their self-esteem and image with their peers and friends. Research also has shown that drug testing is one of the most—if not the most—effective tool for students to refuse to use alcohol or drugs while still maintaining friendships and self-esteem.
The intention of the program is non-punitive. It is not our goal to catch students who are using alcohol or drugs. Rather, our goal is to increase student awareness of the dangers of alcohol and drug use, to teach them good coping skills in dealing with peer pressure, and to give them a legitimate reason for saying no to alcohol and drugs. Our hope is that no students ever test positive because they are able to say no before beginning to use alcohol or drugs. Of course, we also want to provide confidential support and assistance to those who do decide to use alcohol or drugs.
We sincerely believe that, by working hand-in-hand with our parents and students in a positive, proactive manner, we can achieve our ultimate goal: a safe and totally alcohol and drug free environment at JSerra.
Please see our Drug Testing Policy and Procedures for more information.