The Boardman Board of Education views with concern the serious implications of illegal drug use.
      Toward that end, the school board has unanimously approved a voluntary random drug testing program that will provide another tool to help students avoid drugs, arm them against peer pressure and help them make better life decisions.
      “If our students know for certain that if they should fall to peer pressure and use illegal drugs, their parents will find out, students simply make the right decision almost every time! School systems that have implemented drug testing as a deterrent have reduced student drug use dramatically. We encourage all parents to sign up to participate in this powerful program. Results will be sent only to parents thus permitting the parents to deal with this issue without involving the school unless they choose to do so.,” Supt. Frank Lazzeri said this week.
      To learn more about the Boardman Local School voluntary drug testing program, a School and Community Forum has been scheduled for Tues., Sept. 18 at 7:00 p.m. in the High School Performing Arts Center.
      Dr. George Elder, vice president of psychemedics and a former school principal for 32 years, will provide a detailed look at this life saving program, the science behind the test, the anticipated results, and answer questions.
      Dr. Elder implemented a program similar to the voluntary drug testing program at Boardman Local Schools, in his school seven years ago using psychemedics hair testing, resulting in a verified drug use of less than 1%, no lives lost, increased respect and a safer and healthier school.
      Students are also welcome to attend this program.