The Houston board of education approved a plan Monday that will implement random drug testing for extra-curricular and co-curricular participants beginning with the new school year.
Under consideration since late last year, the measure applies to high school students only. The complete policy is posted on the district’s Web site at http://www.houston.k12.mo.us.
“As we get closer to next school year, the district will be working to make sure that parents and students are fully informed about how the policy will work and what impact it can have on extra-curricular participants,” said Dr. Dan Vandiver, superintendent.
In other matters, members:
-Recognized Maygen Ward, who received the American FFA degree last fall at Indianapolis, Ind. It is the highest honor an FFA participant can receive.
-Continued discussion on an “early-release” program that would facilitate curriculum development and instructional improvement, said Vandiver.
If approved, on a selected day each week throughout the school year students would be released at 1:30 p.m., providing 90 minutes per week for professional development time and collaboration. It would eliminate a series of partial days during the school year that are earmarked for the same purpose.
The board tabled the issue until February to gather more input. Parents and patrons are encouraged to ask questions or voice any concerns to the board.
-Approved a City of Houston request for a small piece of property that will be used as part of the community’s walking trail. It is situated within the right-of-way on the north side of Spruce Street.