"STREET" PROBLEMS COME TO PUBLIC SCHOOL

(02/13/2004)
Times are changing and educators are pressing the envelope to cope with what was once considered "street problems" being brought into public schools.

Calhoun Schools have adopted a somewhat controversial drug testing policy that applies only to students who are engaged in any kind of extra-curricular activities.

John Morrison of Washington, West Virginia was charged with one count of carrying a firearm on school property this week in Wood County.

Morrison, who was intoxicated, was arrested Tuesday night at a Parkersburg South High School girls' basketball game. He also had a knife and ammunition on him.

He is charged with bringing a firearm on school property. He could be facing other charges.

Three Spencer Middle School students were taken to a hospital last week after they allegedly ingested prescription drugs given to them by another student. The students were taken to Roane General Hospital, where they were treated and released.

Police Chief Gary Williams said the three students, two 14-year-old males and a 13-year-old female, were given drugs by another student, a 14-year-old female.

The drugs were identified as Clonazepam, Seroquel and Topomax, which are generally used to combat seizures or other disorders.

Trafficking in prescription pills has become more common in school systems in recent years.