What Are the Benefits of Drug Testing in Schools?

Drug testing in schools continues to be a controversial issue, with both disadvantages and benefits. Proponents point to several main benefits when stating their case.

  1. Reduced Incidence of Drug Use

    • If students know that they are going to be tested for drugs at random, it is a logical assumption that they will not bring drugs to school and that they will decrease their drug use, particularly if they initially fail a drug test.

    Identification of Substance Abuse Problems

    • Drug tests can bring a student's substance abuse problem to the attention of teachers and parents who may have otherwise been unaware. In this way, the student can receive the counseling and treatment necessary to treat his addiction.

    Making School Safer

    • Increased drug use in schools can lead to increased incidents of assaults, thefts and other criminal activity. Implementing a drug-testing policy to catch offenders will discourage others from experimenting with drugs and will reduce drug-related crimes.

    Reaching Out

    • Proponents emphasize that the goal of drug testing in schools is not to punish offenders but rather to reduce incidences of drugs and drug use in schools and provide help to students who may not otherwise receive it.

    Legalities

    • The U.S. Supreme Court legalized the practice of random drug testing in schools in 2002. Local governments and schools themselves can develop their own rules regarding this practice at their discretion.

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