The primary object of a student search is to preserve safety in schools as it is threatened by drug abuse. However, unfounded random searches still violate the Fourth Amendment, he said. Shoop said he thought once a student was observed using drugs, the school could take the appropriate disciplinary action without a drug test. Some schools in Kansas have looked into creating a policy for blanket drug testing the student body, but the procedure would be incredibly expensive, Shoop said. However, Shoop is not aware of any Kansas school districts that have implemented policies at this time.
Courts are also divided on the issue of drug testing student athletes.
In some cases, it has been ruled legal to submit student athletes to drug tests if they have been notified before the tests are administered. Other courts have ruled that the school needs a written and publicized policy on drug testing first.