2,486 LTISD students underwent random drug testing in program's first year of implementation

Out of 2,486 students randomly tested for drug use in the 2018-19 school year throughout Lake Travis ISD, 28 results came back positive according to the district’s routine drug test administration program.

The data from the program's first year of implementation was presented during a Nov. 20 regular board meeting.

Superintendent Brad Lancaster provided the trustees with an update on the district’s drug-testing system for the 2019-20 school year. Tests will be administered six times throughout the school year, representing a decrease from last year's eight rounds of testing, Lancaster said.

The largest number of children tested came from Lake Travis High School at 1,580 for the 2018-19 school year. Lake Travis Middle School tested 500 students and Hudson Bend Middle School tested 406.

Hudson Bend Middle School parent Chloe Kean approached the board with her concerns regarding testing middle school students using a urine sample, suggesting the method is invasive and embarrassing for children.

Board Member Bob Dorsett countered that urine samples are the most effective method of testing, and suggested that moving forward all athletes should be tested during their sports seasons, though the possibility and legality of that decision is uncertain.

Results are coming in from the 2019-20 school year, with 238 tested in the first round and 277 in the second. Districtwide there has been one positive test.

The board also discussed the prevalence and danger of vaping among children at the high school and middle school levels, and whether or not a vaping test could be implemented in the future. While no decision was made during the meeting, the board agreed to continue the discussion on the program details.

“The fact that we’re not having a positive test is an absolute sign that the program is working,” Dorsett said, adding that he believes the program has encouraged students to say no to drug use.