Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Email this article to a friend

Breathalyzers approved for school use

FOXBORO, Mass. -- Breathalyzers are coming to the halls of a local high school.

The school committee unanimously passed the measure Monday night for events where students are suspected to be under the influence.

The school superintendent did not rule out using them during the school day.

"It would be a tool that could be used, if we found that we had reasonable suspicion that a student was using alcohol during the school day," said Chris Martes, superintendent of Foxboro Public Schools.

According to the 2009-10 school handbook, reasonable suspicion could include "erratic behavior" or "slurred speech" but "they also include leaving school grounds or returning to school grounds during scheduled hours."

Some parents wonder if it would be administered fairly.

"Would the star quarterback or the popular kid or someone with connections to the administration, they'd probably be more likely to get away with it than someone who was just in the general population of the school," said James McMorrow, a parent.

The policy was born out of past tragedy. Last year, Taylor Meyer died after an underage drinking party in nearby Wrentham.

"I think for their protection if their parents are for it, then I think it's a good idea," said Arthur Georgantas, a parent.

Martes pointed out that only a school administrator such as the principal or assistant principal could administer a breathalyzer.

A .02 reading would be considered evidence that a student had been drinking. On a first offense, the student will receive a five-day suspension.

(Copyright (c) 2009 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)