Department of Education Announces Availability of Student Drug Testing Grant Applications

The Department of Education’s Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools (OSDFS) today invited applications for new awards to develop and implement, or expand, school-based drug-testing programs for students. Approximately $6.5 million is available to local educational agencies (LEAs), and public and private entities. Grant applications are due August 16, and grants will be awarded on September 29. Click here for a full description of the grants and the application procedures.

The funds may be used to set up drug-testing programs in grades 6-12, and is limited to one or more of the following:
1. Students who participate in the school’s athletic program
2. Students who are engaged in competitive, extracurricular, school-sponsored activities; and
3. A voluntary testing program for students who, along with their parents or guardian, participate in the program.

In May, DATIA provided comments to OSDFS regarding these criteria for drug testing programs that may be performed using this grant money. The original wording was confusing, as it appeared to preclude students from volunteering, with the consent of their parent or guardian, to participate in a random drug testing program set-up for students in athletic or extracurricular activities. OSDFS agreed that the wording was confusing and clarified their intent, which is allow those schools that have mandatory programs for students in extracurricular or competitive activities to also have voluntary programs for the general student body. Click here to read DATIA’s original comments in PDF.