Summary of Strongsville Schools Random Drug Testing Policy

Strongsville GOP Assembled the following summary of the Random Drug Testing Policy approved by the Strongsville School Board:

Read the actual policy on the Strongsville School Website here:

​Summary of Policy 5530.01 - Drug Testing of Students
Objective: The Strongsville City School District’s drug testing policy aims to promote a safe, healthy, and drug-free environment for students. This proactive measure supports the district’s commitment to preventing drug use among students and provides resources for those needing help.
Applicability:

• Middle and high school students involved in athletics, extracurricular activities, or those who drive and park on school property are subject to the policy.
• Participation in these activities or obtaining a parking permit requires an "Informed Consent Agreement" signed by both the student and their parent/guardian.

Program Goals:

1. Ensure student health and safety.
2. Discourage drug use and provide reasons to refuse drugs.
3. Support students in drug treatment programs and partner with parents to encourage healthy choices.

Testing and Confidentiality:

• Students will undergo random drug testing, which will not affect their academic records or result in suspension or expulsion from school.
• Positive test results may lead to consequences related to athletics, extracurricular activities, or parking privileges but will remain confidential.

Consequences for Positive Results:

• First Offense: 20% suspension from activities or parking privileges.
• Second Offense: 50% suspension, loss of leadership positions, and mandatory testing for the rest of the year.
• Third Offense: One-year suspension from activities or parking privileges, requirement to enroll in a drug prevention program.
• Fourth Offense: Permanent suspension from activities and parking privileges for the remainder of the student's school career.

Testing Procedures:

• Random urine tests will be conducted at school or an approved facility.
• The process includes strict privacy measures and a clear chain of custody.
• Adulteration of samples or refusal to test will be treated as a positive result.

Voluntary Referrals:

• Students may voluntarily seek help for drug use without immediate consequence on the first offense, but must comply with the recommendations of an assessment.

Vendor Role:

• An independent vendor will handle specimen collection and ensure confidentiality.
• A Medical Review Officer (MRO) will review positive results and provide certification.

Confidentiality:

• Test results are confidential and not recorded in academic records. Records are destroyed within 30 days of the student’s graduation or withdrawal.

This policy underscores the district’s commitment to fostering a drug-free school environment and supporting students who may need help with substance abuse issues.