School Substance Abuse Rumors are Addressed by Administration
Have you been hearing the truth or is it a rumor?
By Nicole Nielsen and Chris McElhatton

In recent weeks, Valley students have heard many rumors concerning substance abuse. Though the halls may be teeming with stories about the administration having a list of students to be tested, or testing entire classes, not everything you hear is true. In fact, so many rumors may exist that the truth is lost in the process. Here are some of the most talked-about rumors we’ve heard:
 #1: There is a random list. Actually, there is no list at all. If you already have been or do get tested, the Valley Christian administration must have evidence from a reliable source to do so. Not all accusations are acted upon. The office receives many phone calls and e-mails from unreliable sources that are dismissed. Testing is also a way for the administration to put an end to student rumors regarding substance abuse.
#2: The whole junior class will get tested. A student will not be tested based on the fact that they are of the junior class. As stated before, there must be a reliable source, or probable cause. This means that
action is only taken if the administration notices questionable behaviors such as a severe drop in grades or any odd behavior. Also, unless there is a reliable source stating that a student was seen abusing substances such as alcohol or drugs, then that student will not be tested. Therefore, juniors would only be tested if there was a suspicion that they may need help.
#3: Testing is done at a clinic. Testing actually occurs on campus, and the samples taken are then transported to a testing facility that the admin chooses. After the administration has contacted your family, you will be brought up to the office and tested. When you are tested, you will be tested for multiple substances. Some of these include drugs, alcohol, and steroids.
#4: It’s unfair for Valley to test its students. Not quite. When you were accepted to Valley, your parents signed a paper saying that the school is allowed to test their students if they have a reason. You represent Valley Christian, the Christian faith, and their morals 24/7, no matter where you are or who you are with.  The theory ultimately comes down to the fact that Christianity is not just a part time deal, but has to be lived out every single day.
#5: You try it once, and you’re gone. Although Valley Christian has a no-tolerance policy, they are not unreasonable. The administration cares for its students, and is will to help those who choose to be helped. If you admit to using any substance and wish to receive help, Valley will be there, and will refer you to a helpful program. After successful completion of this program, students may be allowed back on campus. Students can only be readmitted if they tell the administration before being tested. With that in mind, students who have been caught violating the schools zero-tolerance policy will be automatically expelled. This includes any possession, use, or selling of illegal substances on campus.
Although not all information is included here, these are just a few important facts to keep in mind. This list is made up of the basic principals on which the school runs. For more information on the substance abuse policy, check out pages 19-21 in your student handbook, or refer to a school administrator.
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body,” - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20