POLICIES, PRACTICES AND CONSTITUENT PERCEPTIONS OF RANDOM, SUSPICIONLESS DRUG TESTING IN PENNSYLVANIA'S PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the policies and practices of school districts with random drug testing policies in Pennsylvania. Specifically, this study intended to help administrators understand the phenomenon of drug testing as one available means of substance use prevention. In response to the rising drug use in our schools, random drug testing has increasingly become one of the many possible solutions being used to prevent student drug use. Currently, drug testing programs have been examined in the workplace and in intercollegiate athletics. However, very little evaluative research has been conducted on whether school districts are satisfied with their random drug testing policies and practices. The researcher anticipates making a significant contribution for school administrators as they strive to generate drug-free schools. The literature review presented in this research study examined the historical perspective of drug use in our nation and the events and perceptions that led up to the job-related drug testing that began in the military and workplace. The role values play in the policymaking process is discussed as well as any conflicts that arise due to diversity in those values. The costs and benefits of a random drug testing policy are also presented. For this study, random drug testing was examined in the context of a range of school districts within Pennsylvania that have implemented similar policies. Statistical data was utilized in order to collect and analyze superintendents' perspectives and satisfaction with random drug testing programs in order to increase the overall understanding of drug testing as a strategy for prevention. Parents, teachers, coaches, administrators and communities may benefit from this detailed study by way of the recommendations that will be provided for future school leaders and various stakeholders considering the adoption of a random drug testing policy.