Carroll ISD was set to move forward with a plan to start random drug testing students who take part in extracurricular activities.

But after district staff read the proposal, the school board decided not to move forward.

The school board began the discussion Monday night but ended tabling the matter. The board says it needs more time before moving forward to answer some lingering questions.

Monday’s board meeting began by recognizing student-athletes who've excelled in water polo and tennis. Carroll ISD's sports programs are among the most successful in the state.

What the district is considering is randomly testing students involved in extracurricular activities and sports, which would be about 2,300 students. It's similar to programs in neighboring districts like Grapevine-Colleyville, Frisco, Keller and McKinney.


"Our goal is to help kids,” said Julie Thannum, a school district employee. “Our goal is to provide resources to their parents."

The programs generally include tests for alcohol, performance-enhancing drugs, marijuana and other drugs.

Talk of random drug testing started a couple of years ago. Much of it has been parent-driven.

Carroll ISD sent out a survey to students, staff and parents and got more than 2,700 responses. Most of them were in favor of the tests, but there are critics.

"Study after study that I've seen show that random of students does not act as a deterrent to drug use among teens,” said parent Meredith Allen.

Board members expressed concern about moving too quickly before all the details are worked out.

"I think we have to do more work,” said Carroll ISD School Board President Sheri Mills. “My opinion is that we're not ready to launch this and make a change in policy because I still have questions."