There will be drug testing at BBPS

Superintendent declines academic bonus

BROKEN BOW - The details are not fully worked out, however, there will be drug testing of students at Broken Bow Public Schools beginning this fall.

At Monday evening’s Broken Bow School Board meeting, Superintendent Darren Tobey and board members said the policy came about as a result of parental concerns.

The board is working on the final language of the new policy with plans to approve it at the July 18 meeting, allowing time for students, parents and guardians to become familiar with it before the school year begins.

The policy states that all students will not automatically be tested. Rather, a number of students will be selected at random for weekly testing.

Board member Tim Chancellor emphasized the intent of the policy, saying, “We can’t waffle. If this is what we’re trying to do, then we do it.”

The intent, as stated in the policy, is to provide safe, substance-free schools; to deter the use of illegal and prohibited drugs, alcohol and tobacco/nicotine among students; and to recognize that students who use illegal and prohibited substances pose a threat to the health and safety of themselves, other students, teacher and administrators.

Board treasurer JB Atkins stated that the proposed policy as currently written “is very similar to other schools.”

Board member Pam

Holcomb said the policy will serve as a deterrent for some students and for others, it will be a way to help them.

“It will assess and address needs of students who need help,” Holcomb said “If we’re not going to help, then whats the point?” She added that studies have shown the number one deterrent on student drug and alcohol use is positive relationships with teachers, parents and others.

Students and a parent or guardian will be asked to sign a form consenting to random testing before being allowed to to participate in one or more extracurricular activities.

It was emphasized that the new policy is not focused only on sports as it includes all extracurricular activities. They are: Annual, Art Club, B-Club, Basketball, Band/ Jazz Band, Cheerleading, CIA, Commencement, Cross Country, Dances including Homecoming and Prom, FBLA, FFA, Flags, Football, Golf, HOSA, Journalism, Musicals/ One Act, Play Production, Show Choir, Skills USA, Spanish Club, Speech, Student Council, Track, Tri-M, Volleyball, Vocal Music and Wrestling.

So far the policy has been sent to coaches and advisors to gather feedback. Chancellor reported that he has received no push-back on the proposed policy from the members of the public that he has spoken with.

In other business, the board approved the $5,000 bonus for Superintendent Tobey as stipulated in his contract when specific student testing scores are met. However, Superintendent Tobey respectfully turned it down, citing events of the past school year. “I don’t think it will be right to take it,” he said. “We can use the money to hep us in different areas and move forward.”

Superintendent Tobey said prices for breakfast and lunches will return to full amounts this year and the exact cost will be set in July. Summer meals remain free through July.

Financially, Treasurer Atkins noted expenditures were greater than normal for May, topping one million dollars. The majority of the computers for the new school year came in early and there was also spending on curriculum. “That was the lion’s share,” Atkins said. “Spending will hopefully be lower in July and August.”

Superintendent Tobey also said cost of replacement and repair from the Feb. 28 water damage at North Park also contributed.

“I would say that we’re pretty close to $33,000 to $35,000 (on the damages),” he said. A malfunction sensor caused sprinklers to turn on, flooding much of the north end of the new building. Insurance claims are still pending.

Present Monday evening were board members Tom Osmond, JB Atkins, Tim Chancellor, Pam Holcomb, Amy Staples and Mary Shaw, Superintendent Darren Tobey and Secretary Kay Einsphar.

The board next meets for a work session July 11 at noon and regular meeting July 18 at 7:30 p.m.