Persuasive Essay: Random Drug Testing In Public Schools

Random drug testing was first used by the United States military to help stop the heroin epidemic during the Vietnam War. Many public schools have been struggling with the problem of their students abusing drugs. Many schools are struggling to find a solution to the problem as well. Random drug testing is a practice that should be implemented in all public schools. Randomly testing students who are involved in extracurricular activities, would allow teachers and other adults to help lead students in the right direction and help them put an end to their addiction. Only students who are involved in extracurricular activities because they are the students who are representing the school. Only these students would be tested because playing sports and being involved in

Randomly testing students for drugs in school would allow them to get help from teachers, counselors, and other adults. Many students stated that they would not be embarrassed if they were to be called down to take a random drug test. Randomly testing will help stop drug abuse in student athletes who wish to continue to participate in sports. “An experimental pilot study of student athletes involved in RSDT programs showed an associated reduction in drug use” (DuPont 841). Random drug testing will also make student athletes stop using drugs “if they’re really serious about playing” (Marciana np). Coaches and faculty members of schools also agree with random drug testing and care about the health and safety of students. “We are trying to look out for the health and safety of our student-athletes. I think we’re trying to send the right message” (Pilon np). Students who wish to participate in extracurricular activities will stop using drugs if they were to be randomly tested because “participating in extracurriculars, in public high schools is a privilege and it’s not a right, as well as parking on our school parking lot” (Marciana