Why did the Norman Public School District implement this policy?

The policy is a result of a recommendation made by the district's School Climate and Culture Task Force. In 2016, the task force was initiated to seek areas where schools can improve and make recommendations to enhance services for students. The task force presented several recommendations, including one to develop and implement a student drug testing policy. The proactive policy is focused on prevention, deterrence and intervention. The policy is intended to provides students with another reason to say "no" and be a mechanism for providing assistance to students who may be struggling with substance abuse while keeping them in school. Additionally, the safety of all students is paramount. When a student uses or abuses drugs or alcohol, it not only puts them in danger but also can endanger other students. 

Who will be tested?

Students in grades 9-12 who participate in school-sponsored interscholastic competitions or represent Norman schools in extracurricular activities that require registration with the OSSAA. 

How many students will be tested?

About 15 percent of the district's 4,000 high school students who participate in or represent Norman schools in activities that require registration with the OSSAA will be tested. 

Why not test all students?

The approach to test students involved with extracurricular activities aligns with similar policies that have been upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. 

How will the tests be conducted? 

A brief, non-invasive cheek swab will be used to conduct the test.

How often will students be tested? 

Tests will be conducted at random monthly throughout the school year.

My child does not participate in or represent schools at OSSAA activities. Can my child be included in the random pool? 

Parents with high school children who do not participate in these activities may request that their child is included in the pool of students who will be randomly selected for testing. Parents should complete this form and submit it to their school's principal. 

How are students selected for the random tests?

A third-party vendor randomly selects the students and performs the testing. 

Are students removed from the random pool after they are tested? 

No. All students who meet the guidelines to be tested remain in the pool for random selection throughout the school year. 

What happens if my child refuses to participate in drug testing?

Students who do not participate in the drug testing program are not eligible to participate in or represent Norman schools in activities that require registration with the OSSAA. 

What happens if a student tests positive? 

The consequences are outlined in the regulation that supports the district's student drug testing policy. Click here to learn more. 

What if my family cannot afford the cost of a licensed drug/alcohol counselor? 

Consistent with the district's history and practice, a family's inability to pay should not be a barrier for any student. We will find resources to help the family secure the assistance they need. 

What academic consequences occur if a student tests positive? 

None.

Are law enforcement agencies notified of positive results? 

No. Test results are kept confidential and are not shared with law enforcement agencies.

Do positive results carry over to the following school year?

No. Results will be destroyed each year, and will not follow the student from year to year. Each year begins with a fresh slate. 

Do positive results follow the student if they transfer or graduate? 

No. Results will be destroyed each year and will not follow the student if they graduate or transfer to another district. 

How is information kept confidential? 

A third-party vendor conducts the testing. All initial positive drug tests are kept confidential and reviewed by a certified medical professional before the school is contacted. If the medical professional determines that the student has the appropriate prescription, the school will not be notified. If a student tests positive and was not prescribed the medication, the medical professional will notify the school.

Is it legal to drug test students? 

The approach to test students involved with extracurricular activities aligns with similar policies that have been upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Where do I find a licensed drug and/or alcohol counselor? 

High school principals, as well as the district's Director of Guidance and Counseling, can provide families with information about how to locate licensed drug/alcohol professionals.

What happens if a student is found in possession or under the influence of drugs or alcohol while at school? 

As in the past, students who are found to be in possession or under the influence of drugs or alcohol while at school will face disciplinary action as outlined in previously approved policies.