ANNOUNCING THE REINSTATEMENT OF THE MIRA COSTA
VOLUNTARY DRUG TESTING PROGRAM
Adolescent alcohol and drug use is a major concern for both educators and parents. The use of illegal substances can lead to harmful and even disastrous results for everyone involved. It is, therefore, important to empower students and parents to avoid the pitfalls associated with drug and alcohol use.
To achieve this goal, MCHS has implemented a Voluntary Drug Testing Program beginning February 2010. The cost of the program is $55 per semester, per student, and includes a minimum of 2 drug tests. Students who participate may, on a random basis, be selected to undergo a voluntary drug test. The tests will be administered on the MCHS campus during the school day in a private and secure location. All tests will be conducted by trained professionals of an independently contracted company. Participation in the program is confidential and non-punitive. Information regarding the test results is confidential and will only be released to parents/guardians. No results, positive or negative, will be given to MCHS or any other person(s) or entity. If a test is positive, the testing company will provide referrals to appropriate counseling and rehabilitative services.
There are several reasons to participate in the Voluntary Drug Program. For parents, it is the logical and simplest way to hold your child accountable to family rules concerning use of illegal drugs. For students, it is a reason/excuse for them to not participate in smoking pot, or taking of pills at parties or when out with friends. If a student knows they are enrolled to be tested, they can tell their friends, “I can’t, my parents put me in the program to be randomly tested!” The goal of the MCHS Voluntary Drug Testing Program is to help our students make good life choices concerning drugs and alcohol.
The success of this program depends completely on parents support and participation. The threat of substance abuse for our students is enormous and there are few actions we can take that can possibly help prevent the cycle of addiction – having your child randomly test is definitely one of them!
To participate, download the one page participation form and return to the Manhattan Beach Athletic Foundation today!
Questions? Contact Dr. Wilson at Mira Costa; Email: Rwilson@mbusd.org or call 310-318-7337 ext. 5102.
