Maintaining a safe, orderly learning environment is a significant challenge for education leaders, especially when students insist on bringing alcohol, weapons, and drugs into schools. To compound that challenge, educators who wish to uncover contraband must do so within the confines of the Fourth Amendment's prohibition against unreasonable…

American Trucking Association conducted survey of 1,655 motor carriers 2 years ago concerning drug use in trucking industry. Based on responses from 540 carriers (32%) costs of drug testing ranged between $30 and $70 per test. Of 153,000 truck drivers tested, 1.95% were verified "positive" for illegal drug use. Delaware study of school…

Analysis of 2001 United States Supreme Court decision in "Earls v. Board of Education of Tecumseh Public Schools," upholding random drug testing for students participating in extracurricular activities. Discusses implications for school policy and practice. (Contains 15 references.) (PKP)

In "Acton," the Supreme Court upheld a local school board policy calling for the random, suspicionless drug testing of interscholastic student-athletes. Reviews the Court's holdings. Concludes that a drug-testing policy that is consistent with "Acton" and enjoys broad-based community support probably would be worth its expense.…

Proposed rules by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for drug and alcohol testing of school bus drivers are expected to be implemented by early 1994. DOT regulations are very specific. School districts need to decide whether to establish their own program or contract with a full-service drug-testing firm. Explains the seven major elements…

Reviews recent federal appellate court cases dealing with legal issues involving random drug testing of students participating in extracurricular activities. Draws implications for school business officials and other educators. (PKP)

Outlines what is required of school districts for compliance with new regulations that require employers to test drivers with a commercial driver's license for the illegal use of alcohol and controlled substances. (MLF)

School districts should develop policies and procedures that cover the area of background checks, yet ensure that potential employees' civil rights are not violated. In developing policies, employers might consider the following areas: reference checks, physical examinations, drug and alcohol screening, conviction record, and credential checking.…