Central Catholic High School To Begin Random Drug Testing
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Central Catholic High School will soon drug test students.
The school says it's part of a new wellness initiative. The testing will begin next school year and will be random.
Students who test positive will be required to be evaluated by a drug counselor and follow a treatment plan.
The school says a "non-invasive hair sampling procedure" will be used.
"This pilot program is one more reason why Catholic schools are so important in nurturing the development of the mind, body and spirit of our students," Bishop David Zubik said in a press release.
"The well-being of our students is of utmost importance. Anything that helps to keep our students drug-free protects their freedom, their future and their families."
Central says they talked with school counselors and the Diocese of Pittsburgh before rolling out the new wellness initiative.
Central Catholic High School will join several other public and private high schools in the area that have already implemented periodic random drug assessment policies.
These schools include St. Joseph's Preparatory School (Philadelphia), Cathedral Prep and Villa Maria Academy (Erie), Bishop Guilfoyle High School (Altoona), Bishop McCort High School (Johnstown) and Kennedy Catholic High School (Hermitage).