Catholic high schools in Evansville to drug test students

EVANSVILLE, Ind. (AP) – Catholic high schools in Evansville may now randomly drug test students as the diocese expands its high school drug and alcohol policy.

The Diocese of Evansville made the announcement Thursday.

Superintendent Daryl Hagan said there’s no evidence of widespread substance abuse but “even one student at risk is too many.”

The Evansville Courier and Press reports that the diocese’s four high schools haven’t had students undergo random drug testing in the past.

The policy goes into effect immediately. Officials say officials at each school will decide how to implement it.

School officials say the goal is to deter student alcohol and drug use and identify students who need early intervention. Students who test positive will have to take drug and alcohol awareness training and possibly receive professional assistance.