During a presentation conducted by local law enforcement on drug use in Columbus, a startling fact was shared. There is more drug use per capita in Platte County than in any other county in Nebraska. Much of this increase can be attributed to the rash of methamphetamine manufacturing and use in this area. It is a sad and scary statistic that youth and adults are having their minds and lives altered at an increasingly alarming rate right in front of our eyes.

One way many school districts have chosen to combat this insidious growth in drug possession and use is utilizing dogs that can identify drugs that are stored in lockers or other building locations. Last week 15 districts that are about the same size as the Columbus Public School District were surveyed. All that responded (12) said they have been using drug dogs for this purpose. Several had been doing so for many years. Lakeview also indicated they have done this for some time.

The Columbus Public Schools will also begin using dogs as one tool to identify whether students are bringing drugs into our middle school and high school buildings. They will be brought in unannounced and sniff all school lockers to determine if any drugs are present. This is only one tool the schools use to identify drug use and insure a no tolerance policy in our schools. Principals and staff work very hard to identify any students who may be under the influence or possessing drugs. Consequences such as long term suspensions and expulsions are delivered expeditiously when investigations conclude this is necessary.

The goal of our strict drug policies and enforcement procedures is not to do the work of law enforcement. The goal is to create a safe and secure environment for the large majority of our students who are drug free. Too many lives have been destroyed due to drugs. Our schools, like our community, are highly concerned about the safety and well being of our youth. We will do whatever it takes to keep them safe and drug free.

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