by Sam Royer ‘15
In light of Principal Bradesca’s announcement regarding the mandatory random drug testing which will happen at Saint Ignatius next fall, several members of the student body felt obligated to share their opinions on the controversial policy.
Although the promulgation of the policy inspired a mixed response from the student body, most agreed that they were pleased there would be no punitive consequences that would arise from their test results.
“I’m in favor of it because the punishments aren’t so severe. It’s only a way to assist people and reduce their addictions. It’s a good thing that the school administration isn’t suspending or expelling kids. It serves as a matter of helping them,” an anonymous source shared.
Sophomore Carter Spearry had a similar opinion saying, “I know that I love this school and as a band of brothers that all Ignatius men are, I want to make sure that everyone is as happy and healthy as they can be. With being able to try to slow down the drug problem – that helps people out who aren’t doing so well and that makes Ignatius a better place.”
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It’ll help some people who I know. It bothers me that I’ve tried to help them and I’ve kind of been ignored in the past.
-Jaxon Parrish ’15
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On a personal note, Jaxon Parrish ‘15 admitted that he believes the policy will help his friend in a way a single person couldn’t. “It’ll help some people who I know. It bothers me that I’ve tried to help them and I’ve kind of been ignored in the past. I think this would be a really good thing for them,” Parrish said.
As expected there were a number of students who couldn’t have agreed less with the policy.
After attending the assembly, Joe Grega ‘15 felt that the policy would only increase underage alcohol consumption in the student body. “I was surprised that the assembly focused so much on alcohol. I think they’re leaving alcohol a viable option for drug use. I honestly think these drug tests will push kids who are in drug use to start drinking more – which I think is a very bad thing. I feel that alcohol is related to a lot of accidents that occur with Ignatius kids. Most deaths that have to do with parties…the kids aren’t high, they’re usually drunk,” Joe said.
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I think they’re leaving alcohol a viable option for drug use.
-Joe Grega ’15[/pullquote]
Although the policy won’t affect current seniors, Adam Calogeras ‘14 also felt the need to weigh in. “I don’t think it’s the school’s prerogative to drug test. I think they should’ve asked the parents if they even wanted it to happen and it should be something that the parents implement or have the school do if they want it to be done, but I don’t think it’s in the school’s reach,” Calogeras admitted.
Editor’s Note: Students are encouraged to have their voice heard by commenting below.
