Feb. 24, 1999

CAVE CREEK — Cactus Shadows High School officials just said “no” earlier this week to random drug tests for Cave Creek student-athletes.

Stressing the merits of prevention programs and discipline guidelines, the school’s Site Council told the Cave Creek Unified School District governing board Tuesday they need more time.

“We don’t have all of our ducks in a row,” said Site Council Chairman Biff Miller. “We’re not ready. It’s as simple as that.”

Further investigation into whether drug testing is appropriate for Cactus Shadows is needed before officials can make an informed decision about the issue, Miller said.

Prevention programs along with groups designed to raise students’ self esteem are making headway, said Janice Johnson, the district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction.

What’s needed now, Johnson said, is a district prevention coordinator to implement uniform policies and programs at all Cave Creek schools.

“Right now we have different things going on,” she told the board and about 40 parents on hand. “We don’t have anything aligned in the district that is connected.”

Site Council members, who report to the governing board, asked for $125,000 to help finance more prevention and awareness programs.

Using different and new teaching methods to keep students away from drugs works, but there’s always more that can be done, said Jared Mansell, Cactus Shadows student body president.

“I don’t think anything is ever enough, but I think it’s a great starting point,” he said.

Despite the announcement to hold off on drug testing, Mansell told the board all students - regardless of athletic involvement - should ultimately be tested.

“I wish we could do it for the whole school,” said Mansell, who also is a cross-country runner.

Dana Mahoney, president of the Parent Teacher Student Organization, said steps have to be taken to ensure drug testing is warranted at Cactus Shadows.

“We’ve got to make sure we’ve dotted our I’s and crossed our t’s before (the Site Council) makes any kind of recommendation,” Mahoney said.