Write a research-supported letter advocating for drug testing in our school
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Since 2014, several Northeast Ohio public and private high schools have implemented drug testing programs in an effort to combat the heroine epidemic and widespread use of performance enhancing drugs.
Proponents argue that drug testing serves as a deterrent and enables users to get the help they need. Critics question the effectiveness of the programs and argue that the privacy rights of students are being curtailed. This lesson affords you the opportunity to consider both viewpoints and challenges you to write a letter to PHS administrators and BOE members advocating for testing in our school. |
Analyzing Opposing Viewpoints |
Common Annotations |
Read the following articles with a pen in hand. While reading, annotate the text using some of the common annotations on the right. Your annotations should leave a trail of what you were thinking while you read the article.
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? = I have a question OR I don't understand
! = Surprising OR important C = Making a connection. This reminds me of _____. * = Main idea E = Evidence that supports the main idea |
"Public High Schools Drug Testing Attacks a Serious Problem" by Editorial Board of The Cleveland Plain Dealer (8/19/15)
"A Contemptibly Misguided Attempt at Reform" by Benjamin Seeley in Scene Magazine (5/8/14)
"A Contemptibly Misguided Attempt at Reform" by Benjamin Seeley in Scene Magazine (5/8/14)
Additional Resources
"Area School Districts Discuss Adapting Policies for Student Drug Tests" by Lindsey O'Brien & Stephanie Metzger, News Herald (9/23/15)
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"Just Say No to Random Drug Testing: A Guide for Students" from the American Civil Liberties Union
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"Drug Testing at St. Ed's, St. Ignatius, and Gilmour called a 'success,' but don't ask for any data" by Patrick O'Donnell, The Cleveland Plain Dealer (6/3/15)
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"The Effectiveness of Mandatory-Random Student Drug Testing" a report by the U.S. Department of Education (July 2010)
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"Drug Tests Mean Haircuts for Students at St. Edward, St. Ignatius, and Gilmour Academy" by Patrick O'Donnell, The Cleveland Plain Dealer (8/15/14)
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AssessmentPHS administrators work with the school board to set policies designed to ensure all students have a safe learning environment. Your task is to write a research based letter to the PHS administration and PSerry Board of Education advocating for drug testing in our school.
When composing your letter you should fill a page by: 1. Introducing yourself 2. Stating your purpose 3. Presenting your concerns 4. Suggesting a reform and support it with research After checking spelling and grammar, share your letter with [email protected]. |
Sample letter
Below is a sample letter. Personalize it by adding or changing information to suit your particular needs.
Anytown Board of Education
Address
Phone / email
Dear [Name] School Board Members, (If sending to individual members, personalize your letter with their name)
Personalize the introduction – State whether you are a parent, teacher, community member, or have another connection to the school district.]
I am a parent whose child attends Acme Elementary School. I would like the board to consider adding a bus stop at the corner of Elm Street and Main Street. Currently, children in my area must go to the nearest stop at West End and Main Street. This requires a half-mile walk and crossing several busy streets.
I know that the school board is committed to the safety of all children. Approving this stop would align with the values and mission of the school district. There are several benefits to the modification of this route:
I appreciate the time and effort the school board puts into protecting the safety of our children. I look forward to hearing from you on this matter. If you would like to discuss this request further, please contact me at your earliest convenience at 123-456-7890.
Thank you for your time, service, and consideration.
Personalize closing
Name
Address
Email
phone]
Anytown Board of Education
Address
Phone / email
Dear [Name] School Board Members, (If sending to individual members, personalize your letter with their name)
Personalize the introduction – State whether you are a parent, teacher, community member, or have another connection to the school district.]
I am a parent whose child attends Acme Elementary School. I would like the board to consider adding a bus stop at the corner of Elm Street and Main Street. Currently, children in my area must go to the nearest stop at West End and Main Street. This requires a half-mile walk and crossing several busy streets.
I know that the school board is committed to the safety of all children. Approving this stop would align with the values and mission of the school district. There are several benefits to the modification of this route:
- The school bus passes through the intersection of Elm Street and Main Street on the way to the current stop, which means the route does not need significant changes.
- Several families in my neighborhood have children who must walk to the West End and Main Street stop.
- By having the bus stop closer to home, there is less risk as the students only need to cross one street.
- Many parents I have spoken with drop their children on campus because of the length of the walk. This causes traffic issues at the school. By adding the bus stop closer to home, more parents will allow their children to ride the bus. Congestion in the drop-off area at the school will decrease.
I appreciate the time and effort the school board puts into protecting the safety of our children. I look forward to hearing from you on this matter. If you would like to discuss this request further, please contact me at your earliest convenience at 123-456-7890.
Thank you for your time, service, and consideration.
Personalize closing
Name
Address
phone]