Pubdate: Mon, 11 Sep 2000 Source: People Magazine (US) Copyright: 2000 Time Inc. Contact: People, Time-Life Building, Rockefeller Center, New York, NY 10020 Feedback: http://www.pathfinder.com/people/web/write_to_us.html Website: http://www.people.com/ Authors: Jessica Zigler, Ann Zatsick, Thomas Dray, and Greg Goldmakher Note: 4 PUB LTEs Related: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v00/n1183/a03.html LARRY TANNAHILL Outrageous! This story is the latest example that the war on drugs is in reality a war against individual liberty and the Constitution. The idea of forced drug testing in our public schools is disturbing enough, but the fact that parents have no veto power over this program is downright anti-American. Larry Tannahill's courage to stand up for what is right is no easy task in a climate that vilifies anyone who dares to "just say no." Jessica Zigler, Klamath Falls, Ore. I'm not sure which scares me more, the mandatory testing or the sheepish parents who are so willing to give up their rights. Ann Zatsick, Commerne, Mich. As an air traffic controller, I have been subject to drug testing. You can make an argument for it in safety-related occupations, but mandatory testing for 12-year-olds who haven't shown any signs of drug use? Surely you jest. Thomas Dray, San Diego Given that anything from cold medicines to antibiotics to certain foods can cause false-positives on a drug test, the Lockney policy is bound to cause innocent students enormous suffering. Greg Goldmakher, Dallas - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D