Board hears proposal for one‑year random drug‑testing pilot for VHSL athletes
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Summary
Staff outlined a one‑year pilot to random‑test about 10% of VHSL athletes (excluding steroid testing), paired with counseling and student surveys; the board asked staff to return with research, stakeholder outreach and a communication plan before any vote.
Administrators presented a proposed one‑year pilot of random drug testing for students participating in Virginia High School League (VHSL) extracurricular athletics.
The pilot, as described by a staff member leading the committee, would test roughly 10% of participating students, target commonly used illegal substances (but not steroids to limit cost), and be paired with counseling and post‑test surveys to measure deterrence. A committee that reviewed the program recommended the limited pilot and gathering student and stakeholder feedback before full implementation.
Board members raised research and cost questions. One board member noted national studies have been “not particularly promising” on deterrence, and staff said the committee reviewed relevant research and planned to collect local data during the pilot to evaluate effectiveness. The administration said it would develop a communication plan with the division’s communications lead and involve counselors and student advisory groups before presenting a formal proposal for a vote.
No action was taken; staff said they would return with finalized recommendations, survey instruments and a parent outreach plan for a future meeting.