MIDDLETOWN SCHOOLS MAY BEGIN DRUG TESTING SOME STUDENTS

MIDDLETOWN: The school district may initiate a random drug testing
program for students involved in extracurricular activities such as
athletics, and those who have an automobile parking permit on school
property.

"Our objective is not to punish those who are determined through the
program to be taking illegal drugs or alcohol, but tohelp them to
avoid such dangerous conduct," Karen Bilbao, the district's
assistant superintendent of schools for pupil services, said at
Tuesday's meeting.

A public hearing on the proposal is scheduled for January to gather
parental input, officials said.