The high school will host a community meeting on the subject Tuesday.
By: Linda Seida
WEST AMWELL South Hunterdon Regional High School will host a community meeting Tuesday to discuss random drug testing of students.
South Hunterdon does not have a policy in place governing random drug testing, and the school has not conducted random tests, Superintendent Lisa Brady said.
But students are abusing drugs.
In a survey of South Hunterdon students in March, results showed drug use is higher than the national average and comparable to what is occurring in other county schools, Ms. Brady said.
"Marijuana is overwhelmingly the drug of choice," Ms. Brady said.
Students also are abusing other drugs.
Heroin is not a big problem locally, although cocaine and prescription drugs are seeing student use, Ms. Brady said. Among the prescription drugs that have become popular with students are OxyContin, a narcotic that is prescribed as a painkiller, and Vicodin, a combination of the narcotic hydrocodone and acetaminophen.
A panel of administrators from county schools where random drug tests are given to students will be available to answer questions. The schools include Hunterdon Central, North Hunterdon and Hackettstown. Also, a short Power Point presentation will be given.
The meeting will be held in the high school’s cafeteria at 7 p.m.
The school is located at 301 Mount Airy-Harbourton Road. For information call 397-2060.

