Jackson Free Press

Jackson Mayor Frank Melton wants students to be able to pass one test in particular... a drug test. Announcing his commitment to improve Jackson's public schools, Melton wants officials to consider across-the-board drug testing. "The only way that I can know to do it without profiling and selecting certain kids is just to test everybody," said Melton. "If Johnny shows up hot on marijuana we know that Johnny needs some help."

Previous Comments

ID

120104

Comment

Here we go again: Guilty until proven innocent. Argh.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-03T19:21:43-06:00

ID

120105

Comment

BTW, this is not as simple as it may sound: http://www.aclu.org/StudentsRights/StudentsRightslist.cfm?c=157 http://www.drugpolicy.org/law/drugtesting/students/ http://www.drugtestingfails.org/letter.html

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-03T19:27:04-06:00

ID

120106

Comment

Let's test their parents and their parent's bosses and then their representatives... Let's weed THEM ALL OUT.

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-03T20:44:05-06:00

ID

120107

Comment

Duane just asked if Frank had to piss in a cup to become mayor? I honestly believe that's a respectable question. Any answers?

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-03T20:45:17-06:00

ID

120108

Comment

oh......my.....gawd... Now see, I can understand metal detectors... ........but then came random locker and bag searches(throughout the day sometimes as told to me by my nieces)....gettting creepy... ....now drug tests? ...what next, strip/cavity searches? I'm glad Frank wasn't mayor when I was in the JPS system...oh the times we had during lunch breaks, especially if you owned your own vehicle...free love man.

Author

Jocelyn

Date

2005-08-04T07:34:20-06:00

ID

120109

Comment

I thought the new rage was "dusting" and "huffing"? You can't test for that and most of those chemicals are available in most any computer lab or "shop class" or janitor's closet. I'd rather see DRUG EDUCATION than DRUG TESTING. Education is much easier on the tax-payer's wallets. Testing does little to prevent current and future drug use. Kids will avoid or beat those tests just as many adults do in their own workplace. Drug tests do little to curb drug use. Ask any parole officer, steroid user, or clinic that performs the tests. Just a costly distraction for tax-payers.

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-04T08:06:47-06:00

ID

120110

Comment

Jocelyn! Fortunately, I think there's some middle ground between free love on lunch breaks and drug-testing (or cavity-searching) every single students. Hopefully, the mayor will start looking for that middle ground rather than make all of our students into guility parties who have to prove their innocence. You do that to young people, they're going to grow up believing that's the way you run America. And you can see the problem with that slippery slope.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-04T08:07:13-06:00

ID

120111

Comment

yes ladd...I hear you...but... Knol makes a much more valid point about this being more costly than benificial and he's right. I'd prefer more drug education too. when I was at Callaway back in the late 70's early 80's we had a science class where a student brought this giant chart that had actual examples of various pills and drugs on it complete with their discription and hazzards...from aspirin to cocaine...no lie..this chart was not made by him because you can tell it was put together by some pharmacy or something for training. I think his parents were doctors or something. Moving on...I learned sooo much about drugs that day..I was amazed...that's why to this day I have never tried anything other than a mild blunt and some beer. Drug education helped me from wrecking my life. Sex Ed did too.... where are these classes nowadays?!!!?!

Author

Jocelyn

Date

2005-08-04T08:22:03-06:00

ID

120112

Comment

We had drug education at my school at various assemblies. They were somewhat effective. The pictures of a meth user's rotting teeth and septum was enough to scare 90% of the people attending the assembly. The prisoners that were speaking to us also used quite a few scary prison tales that had quite a few boys squirming in their seats (if you know what I mean). I would say there obviously needs to be more focus on crystal meth and designer drugs these days as well as huffing and dusting. Marijuana is still a problem and is definitely a gateway to other drugs but many kids I've read about and known skip "the weed" and go straight to drugs they think aren't dangerous such as ecstacy, crystal, and inhalants. Most of those won't show in a test unless the user has used in the last day or three or unless you do a hair strand (which is more costly if I remember correctly). You also run the risk of wrongly accusing someone of using drugs. Poppy seeds can be wrongly identified as opiate use. Certain medications can be deemed methamphetamines or other illegal substances. There are other examples but I can't flash them off the top of my head. Basically, these tests would be for marijuana use. Plain and simple. THC stays in the body (primarily fat cells) for weeks. Most kids can't afford or have access to the other drugs on such a regular basis that they'd have crystal, cocaine, ecstacy, and so forth in thier system long enough to test positive. Most of those chemicals are in and out of the body within hours and at most a couple of days. I just don't see the point. If our legislators and representatives aren't required to be tested (are they?), I don't see how we can rightly force others relying on tax-dollars to be tested. When I see Trent Lott or Frank Melton drop trou and have a stranger observe him urinating into a cup, I might be more open to the idea. That whole "practice what you preach" mantra comes to mind.

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-04T09:00:10-06:00

ID

120113

Comment

J, actually, I remember in 4th or 5th grade seeing this type of chart you mention and learning about "drug education" at that time. However, I think it did more harm then good. How many of us at that age knew what heroin or coke was much less all the drug paraphernalia shown? To this day I still remember them showing us a frisbee with a holder in it that you put your joint in and throw it back to your friend. That memory is not because of shock - no it seemed really cool and creative - even though I didn't understand what we were learning or why. Just that they wanted us to know these things were not good! In hindsight, I think it glorified drugs in a way. It taught us things earlier then we may have needed even though the intent was a good one. And let's not forget the FEAR they put into some of us about tornados and thunderstorms with those videos of houses getting destroyed, howling winds with pitch dark skies, families huddled in bunkers, and children balled up in school hallways. For years when I was little, if an air-raid siren went off, I was pulling the mattresses off my bed to go crawl into the tub. Sad, I know! But, that was what the video told us to do! Now later on in high school we did learn more reasons why drugs are bad and the effects that go along with addictions. That was much more appropriate and beneficial then the grade school class. The infamous "angle dust" ABC after school special we watched in class where the guy ends up on top of the flag pole all whacked out on angel dust. Ah, the memories! I may drag a mattress into the tub just to feel like a kid again! Oh, and blanket drug tests are not the answer to JPSís problems or the answer to eradicating drugs in high school.

Author

pikersam

Date

2005-08-04T09:13:24-06:00

ID

120114

Comment

I disagree Knol.. there is no such thing as a "gateway" drug as you've proven in your statement 'kids I've read about and known skip "the weed" and go straight to drugs they think aren't dangerous such as ecstacy, crystal, and inhalants. the drug testing will definitely violate a lot of kids rights, which percieves them to be guilty until proven innocent. It's not an effective deterrent IMHO. An effective deterrent is parent involvement and drug education. Now later on in high school we did learn more reasons why drugs are bad and the effects that go along with addictions. That was much more appropriate and beneficial then the grade school class. Watching my friends get hooked on crack, cocaine and heroin was not more appropriate for me. It was sad. That class at least showed me what to look for and what not to mess with. One of my friends who was in that class died from a heroin overdose after she moved away to California and ironically she was one of the kids who liked to play in class instead of learn.

Author

Jocelyn

Date

2005-08-04T09:19:55-06:00

ID

120115

Comment

J, I understand and do think drug education is good. I think they started a little too early with my class to present it in a classroom setting. I think parental involvement is key when a youth; but, do think that 7th or 8th grade may be a better time to begin to educate children about drugs in a school setting. Unfortunately an addictive personality is going to be an addictive personality whether they get drug education or not, so I know it may have helped your friends to learn more about drug abuse earlier like you, it may not have stopped their tendencies towards addiction.

Author

pikersam

Date

2005-08-04T09:40:21-06:00

ID

120116

Comment

I just noticed you said you were in 4th-5th grade...I was in the 10th. regardless we both saw it. and I agree with your last sentence.

Author

Jocelyn

Date

2005-08-04T10:21:05-06:00

ID

120117

Comment

I don't know if this has been asked but what happens when someone tests positive? Are tax-payers paying for the treatment? Are we, as tax-payers, footing the bill when parents can't pay for rehab? Again, FrankCo, let's think of the FULL PLAN not just project X of Project XYZ. If, and that's a big IF, we plan to test children for illegal substances, what are the plans to deal with the positives? Most people in Jackson can't afford rehab... Most people in Jackson can barely afford the tests the Mayor is suggesting we push onto ALL students... Hell, most people can barely afford the $500 car tag for their $14,000 car... But I digress. If they test positive and there's no plan for their rehab, that's MORE kids on the streets with idle hands... And you know what they say about idle hands. They're the Republicans worst nightmare. That's why they like China and India. I wonder what they think over at the alt.brownose.conservative.hypocrite.biggov.njam.mississippipolitics.wearetiredofMeltonbutarescaredtosayit.site of such a socialist plan to test and rehab all the "heathens" of their evil, substance abuse? I suspect we just test them and kick them out is the policy. Then they can b!tch about all the crime from all the kids we threw to the streets because we didn't think things through (because they like to think in a Crawford state of mind) and start new blogs about it and feel important and stuff because THEY have a plan... They do. Certainly, they do have an exit strategy for these children, their families, and the society that will have to pay one way or the other, right?

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-04T21:49:38-06:00

ID

120118

Comment

"a Crawford state of mind" That's the official o' this week. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-04T22:04:10-06:00

ID

120119

Comment

Also, funny you should mention the meltoniskingnomatterwhathedoes.blog. It's funny how selectively Alan posts over thereóonly things designed to (a) attack any messinger who would dare say anything negative about the candidate he annointed as absolutely perfect or (b) make said candidate/now public servant look better. I knew how rigged that thing was when they were cherry-picking our stories during the campaign, but conveniently managed to overlook Adam's story about Mayor Johnson screwed the unions. That just wouldn't have fit their dumbass little narrative, would it? (rolling eyes) I do wonder what they're going to think about the push to raise their taxes now to pay for all of Melton's ideas -- the whole don't-recruit-any-more-cops-until-we-raise-taxes-to-pay-them-more thing. I'm not sure such a thing is in The Neo-Con/N-JAM Manifesto. Of course, one could have seen this particular conflict coming, too, had one paid attention to what was actually going on in said campaign and how different Mr. Melton was addressing, and promising, different groups dramatically different things. We shall see.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-05T08:50:26-06:00

ID

120120

Comment

Why not drug test his goons(cops) first?

Author

Jocelyn

Date

2005-08-05T09:10:57-06:00

ID

120121

Comment

Amen! We should certainly make sure those enforcing the laws are abiding by them...

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-05T09:12:00-06:00

ID

120122

Comment

I believe there is prevalent abuse of marijuana within JPS, but I donít believe Meltonís proposed policy will be implemented. As for drug education, in my opinion, it would have little effect specific to the "gateway" drug marijuana.

Author

K RHODES

Date

2005-08-05T13:09:28-06:00

ID

120123

Comment

I assume all real libertarians are going to come out strongly against this drug-testing idea?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-05T13:32:58-06:00

ID

120124

Comment

Ya'll i still haven't figured out as to why in the heck fire you'd want to do this anyways? What are ya going to accomplish? I mean, I believe its a completely legitimate practice in high school or any other sports, but is there a drug out there I don't know about that can unfairly boost ones academic ability over his or her fellow students? My goodness. Sounds like milkin' a dry cow to me.

Author

bluedog

Date

2005-08-05T15:21:11-06:00

ID

120125

Comment

Why not drug test his goons(cops) first? Jocelyn, I think that's an inappropriate comment, and ad hominen against an entire group of people. Jackson police deserve so much more respect than they gottenóespecially from the crowd that's tried to demonize them in order to make the city look bad and gain political power. They've been bashed enough as a group and accused all sorts of unsubstantiated chicanery by the anti-Jackson folks; they sure don't need to face that over at the JFP.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-05T22:25:18-06:00

ID

120126

Comment

Well, a whole lot has happened while I was gone! Melton needs a lesson in theory vs. practice. I know he means well, and I understood his reasoning (I stress the word HIS). However, the repercussions for doing so would be more than what he bargained for. I really don't think it would be possible for him to do this, but if it were: * JPS would have to cut back on funding in important areas in order to pay for all these tests. Overworked lab techs ain't doing this for free. * Students on certain prescriptions will be held under a cloud of suspicion until they can prove their innocence - totally unconsttutional. * Is the rate of drug use among JPS students even high enough to justify something like this? I think it would be better to focus on students who show actual SIGNS of drug use and not the students who are abstaining and leading productive lives.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-07T15:52:36-06:00

ID

120127

Comment

right or wrong, this sort of thing is even MORE disasterous without a damn good plan of action for what to do with those found 'positive' and that doesn't include tossing 'em out of the classroom.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-07T16:07:20-06:00

ID

120128

Comment

I agree with you, jp!, and I will definitely be adding the mayor to my prayer list. Help his mind, Lord!

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-07T16:51:55-06:00

ID

120129

Comment

That would be my question....what are you going to do once you test them? Are you going to create and fund an adolescent A&D program? Are they going to go into special classes? Are you just going to suspend them (as Knol mentioned) which will only do horrible things for crime and, um, for ME as a social worker. There are SO MANY THINGS wrong with the JPS system, I just feel this is throwing money away. When you can't afford BOOKS, you don't get to provide free medical treatment and lab testing. How about you give me an after school program that teaches drug education and gives kids a place to hang out after school? Cheaper, more effective, and most importantly....*I* get to tell parents about it when they call and ask ME for help with their kids who are running the streets after being suspended from school and are out of control. In response to the "Melton" thing...all I have to say is it really is quite entertaining to watch. Knol, per YOUR blog....don't you love he toured the gay bar then hit the sex shop? That's the best thing EVER. Please Mayor Melton find the rest of the sick and perverted populations of the city and act like you are going to arrest them. It makes good television. And everyone knows that is what we are really about.

Author

Lori G

Date

2005-08-08T10:46:15-06:00

ID

120130

Comment

maybe he wanted to visit those places and just was too shy. you know, afraid he'd get caught. if he had a REASON to go, you know...maybe it'd be cool and he could 'get away with it'. ha!

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-08T10:51:48-06:00

ID

120131

Comment

BTW, Mr. Melton is still saying he is going to test all JPS kids for drugs. I guess no one's caught him up yet on the perils, legal and otherwise, of doing such an idiotic thing: WLBT Friday: Mayor Melton says he also hopes to work closely with Jackson Public Schools to implement a mandatory drug testing policy. Would someone PLEASE talk to this man?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-08T15:43:57-06:00

ID

120132

Comment

Donna, that is one of the real problems with folks that disagree with Melton. I believe those that disagree with him need to get together and discuss rather than just howl into the night. otherwise, there's no reason for him to believe that anyone detracting him is anything but 'one of those people that just don't like him anyway'.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-08T15:47:55-06:00

ID

120133

Comment

Donna, who is your city councilman? Maybe s/he can bring it up at the next council meeting.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-08T15:50:26-06:00

ID

120134

Comment

jp!, how do you mean? Get together with Mr. Melton himself? I believe he likes to gather people around him who don't challenge his ideas, or there seems to be strong evidence of that. (Witness: Attempted "firings" of city board members.) LW, it's not about who my city council person is; it's really about the citizenry demanding that Mr. Melton start doing his homework; rather than making declarations and accusations and asking questions later. There is a reason the U.S. isn't built on the concept of "guilty until proven innocent" or wide nets that hurt the innocent as well as the guilty (like drug-testing for all kids).

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-08T15:53:36-06:00

ID

120135

Comment

I made the suggestion because I figured that Melton would more likely talk to a councilman than you (he won't even give you an interview). If you called City Haqll right now, they'll probably tell you the same thing. Is the Mayor's Action Line still operable? I think the number was 601-960-1111.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-08T15:57:25-06:00

ID

120136

Comment

well, yes. if there is a group that has a problem with him or even anticipates a problem with him, they need to meet with him and talk. get an appointment. if someone or a group needs to work with this mayor, its not going to help if the first words he hears is a molotov cocktail thrown his way. i'm not saying he does/doesn't deserve anyone's ire. i'm saying that you have him as your new mayor and if any citizen/group has a problem, they need to talk to him before they just blast the guy and assume he won't listen. sometimes you can make people listen. you can never do that if you never tried to talk to them in the first place (without hostility). Its like a negotiation. If a group wants something from someone (in power) they can't always hope to publicly malign him into agreement.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-08T16:05:10-06:00

ID

120137

Comment

I see what you're saying, and agree for the most part. I think you're warning about the scenario that was played out so often against past mayorsówhere people fired off their mouths without having enough information or trying to talk to them about what was going on. (In fact, Mr. Melton's "Bottom Lines" rather helped establish the precedent for such public attacks.) Perception-Gate comes instantly to mind. All that said, I don't believe in ever saying to a citizen that they should not challenge their elected officialsóloudly and passionately like Mr. Melton used to do on TVóbecause public servants must be held directly accountable for all the actions they take on the public's behalf. And if they seem to trying to hide information, or avoid talking to the media (or even just the ones prone to ask them the hardest questions), then they deserve whatever they get from the citizenry. For my part, I've done everything in my power to have an intelligent, detailed conversation with Mr. Melton and still hope to some day. Meantime, my staff and I will keep asking pertinent, and tough, questions, which is our role beyond all others. However, I certainly encourage citizen groups to come together and ask for his time to talk about these issues and how he's approaching things and express their concerns. That is a wonderful idea. You should organize one. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-08T16:14:00-06:00

ID

120138

Comment

I agree 100%, but if you want to talk to someone about (for an example out of thin air) gun control, you don't invite them to a rally for gun control as your way to see if they like you or agree with you. that's not a conversation, that's asking someone to agree with you when it may not be that simple (even if everyone wants it to be). if he (or anyone) is surrounded by 'yes men' then no one will be there to say "hey, that's not a good idea". if people (and there are many) are unhappy with hwat he's doing, then there needs to be a coordinated effort to talk. if that is rejected, maybe all bets are off. perhaps this is more directed to activists/leaders of various group that take issue with the mayor than just joe blow that is unhappy with something he heard maggie wade talking about. the point is, if you are one that is the target of some unpleasantry, your better off trying to meet and discuss than you are just flaming away. I speak less about what someone is right/wrong to do and more about a means to solve a problem.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-08T17:45:51-06:00

ID

120139

Comment

I can think of one reason many don't feel they can ASK Melton for a meeting or conversation: the forum sponsored by JAN at the Medical Mall. That, in many people's minds I've talked to, set the tone for Melton's administration and the limits of having a discussion. jp, I'm curious if you've attempted to setup a meeting with Dubya? ;-) That's rhetorical... No need to answer.

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-08T17:45:57-06:00

ID

120140

Comment

well, that's exactly my point Knol! you can't get a meeting w/ dubya. you probably have a hard time getting a meeting with trent lott (at LEAST because of the distance), but the mayor is right here and MUCH more accessible. that's why i feel there is a reason. As for the Medical Mall forum, i understand the feeling and frustration with that, but leaders can't just say "he was a jerk back then" and go about the next 4 years as if he doesn't exist. Please understand i'm not speaking down toward anyone i've seen bad mouthing the mayor and i don't have anyone in particular in mind that's somehow going about things wrong, but there are some real issues that are fixable. Like it or not, this mayor has a mandate, or more importantly, he fully believes he has a mandate to do what he's going to do. if I/you/we disagree with him on something, it'd be much better to speak with him than to fight him out of the gate because he has ever reason to think he's right. the way to convince this mayor isn't to punch him in the face...no matter how right you are. now, if talking doesn't work...? well ...put the gloves on.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-08T17:52:53-06:00

ID

120141

Comment

jp, I don't see anybody punching anybody in the face or "flaming away" (although there were some inappropriate tweaks about the sex shop posted earlier that I need to go remove). And I don't actually see anyone with gloves on, at least not in the way that Mr. Melton used to go after public officials. Criticizing is not "badmouthing." The onus is on the mayor to show whether or not he is willing to be asked questions by citizenry, including those who may be critical of something he does, or whether he just chooses to surround himself by people who tell him everything he is doing is right, regardless. And if the people can't get themselves heard unless they're loud, then they should be loud. That's their right as citizens; his obligation is to listen whether or not they agree. And I doubt seriously that this particular mayor would agree with you that citizens should not be very loud and direct about their concerns. He rather wrote the book on that locally. ;-) In other words, sure, citizens' groups should form and coordinate in whatever various forms they can to get information from the city and to get their concerns addressed. But no one needs to treat Mayor Melton with kid gloves. I think he would laugh at that idea himself. He's a very strong personality with strong ideas and is capable of handling criticism I'm sureóeven criticism that is as loud as he used to give off himself about the city and individuals in it, and by name. Truth is, sometimes people have to be loud to be heard at all. I don't really get your Medical Mall comment. Who is acting as if Mr. Melton "doesn't exist"? He is doing things every single day to show that he exists; it is those things that people are addressing here, not his bolting from the JAN forum in lieu of answering questions. I actually disagree with you that the mayor has a mandate, but that's neither here nor there. I hate the word "mandate"óit's usually only used to justify questionable actions by elected officials. Think about it. And if there is any "mandate," it is to be an effective mayor. You can't be an effective mayor if you do not take the time to figure out what is legal and what's not, and where the concept of "due process" fits in the bureaucracy of governing.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-08T18:06:13-06:00

ID

120142

Comment

BTW, I should also mention that I take his threat to drug-test all public-school children very seriously. Them's fightin' words to me. I care too much about the rights of children and the U.S. Constitution to not get loud about them. So, buckle up.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-08T18:09:49-06:00

ID

120143

Comment

What is your suggestion for those that have attempted to talk with him with no response? I know of three groups thus far. As you know from our conversations on my blog, I know of two organizations that have attempted to meet with him. UM has finally received a response but no actual promise for a meeting at this point. Your statements apply to those that have NOT attempted to contact and speak with the mayor. Again, what about those that have attempted communication and have received no response (including but not limited to the JFP, JAM, etc)? And this is not a small problem. You and I have had many face-to-face conversations regarding the isolation this camp enjoys and the walls it's built around its plans and policies. From reading your blogs, I suspect if you did not actually know of Melton as a person, your posture would be dramatically different regarding this situation. Your point in this block of space/time gives you a much different perspective. All I see is OUTPUT. No INPUT (even from advisors). There's already been enough foot-in-mouth to predict this won't stop any time soon unless he and his advisors are willing to open up to the community at-large. He is not a preacher preaching to a pulpit. He is a representative of the tax-paying city and its citizens and should be open to the citizen's pleas, applause, and even cursing -- regardless of whether he agrees or disagrees from a moral/political/professional perspective. It is in so many words HIS JOB to listen to the citizenry and the city as a whole. I do know of one way to speak with the mayor... Become a victim or a perp of a crime and have a TV camera nearby. Warning: This might not work without the TV cameras within a ten-foot range of your face. ;-)

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-08T18:20:30-06:00

ID

120144

Comment

i don't mean to be short and cut things off here, but I would actually like to talk to you (and anyone else interested) in person about this. I don't feel i can efficiently discuss the issue via the post system. i'm available everyday until friday, including today/tonight. I have several ideas on the matter.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-08T20:16:20-06:00

ID

120145

Comment

Foregoing the idea that Melton, if asked, would have a roundtable with the citizenry that wish to demand he start doing his homework before the proverbial egg is over all our faces, perhaps said citizenry should utilize the three minute general public comment allowed all citizens during the city council meetings. Of course the aforementioned (omitting the potential effect it would have regardless) hinges on Melton being present and his remaining seated during the said citizenryís demands.

Author

K RHODES

Date

2005-08-08T22:00:49-06:00

ID

120146

Comment

yep.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-08T22:30:43-06:00

ID

120147

Comment

I'm a little behind on this , but love ladd's 'so buckle up.' I will . Am here.

Author

haupc

Date

2005-08-09T00:53:36-06:00

ID

120148

Comment

And , Ladd, now t hat I'm buckled up, where are we going? What's the plan? I am committed to being here in MS, give me a task. Did you see Dem. Now today, coverage of Atlanta march, VRA, give us a task.

Author

haupc

Date

2005-08-09T01:13:51-06:00

ID

120149

Comment

There are lots of reasons for saying Meltonís take-no-prisoners drug-test-all-students is problematic. But lets take a look only at one issue: costs. Both supporters and non-supporters estimate the cost to be between $10 & $30 per student for a basic urine-testing system (tests for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP; does NOT test for alcohol or tobacco and can be easily adulterated). A more advanced, accurate (for long term use, not accurate for recent and short-term use) and expensive hair-testing procedure costs between $60 and $75 per test. JPS has an enrollment of ...what, about 31,000 K through 12th grade students? And since der Fuhrer is going to test ìall JPS students,î not a random selection or student athletes and etc., we are looking at $310,000--$930,000 for the CHEAP test or $1,860,000--$2,325,000 for the more expensive test coming out of the districtís already depleted budget. Isnít that money that should be going to teachers and classroom supplies and student services, Frank? But no, Frank wants to force kindergarten and 1st graders among others to pee in a cup so that people without a connection to the district a false feeling of security.

Author

Johann

Date

2005-08-09T08:18:56-06:00

ID

120150

Comment

Johann, good points. You also need to factor in costs for "re-tests" to confirm the findings were accurate. Just because a test returns positive does not mean it was accurate and I will presume 75%+ of parents will without doubt challenge the results. If we force a test, we more than likely will be forced to re-test. And how many times a year will the tests be conducted? This issue is all frenetics at this point but should still remain under scrutiny as long as it's something he keeps repeating...

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T08:42:30-06:00

ID

120151

Comment

the problem with this whole thing is that it doesn't touch on the real trouble. I know teachers, and i've never heard one say "you know what the problem is here? my kids coming in here High as a kite!" drug use is a problem, but good lord, lets not spend that sort of money on the least of our problems. The mayor needs some direction on the drug issue. hell, appeal to his vanity. you look a LOT better for busting bigtime dealers than you do smalltime users. the key is to say "we can't let drug pushers go free so that we spend time trying to find if our students are users". there's a finite number of resources.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-09T08:48:30-06:00

ID

120152

Comment

I say we use the money he's budgeting for drug tests to fund ART CLASSES! Give them a different outlet than drugs and the streets.

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T08:51:47-06:00

ID

120153

Comment

I'm all for art classes. I drew pictures and doodles ever since I was old enough to hold a crayon. I always enjoyed art and learning how to use a new medium, and I almost majored in art when I went to college. It makes you feel like you really have accomplished something and that you are somebody when you create something with your own hands. I have encouraged my nephew and nieces to draw, and they enjoy it. Now I have a whole stack of pictures that I can smile and snicker at.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-09T09:28:13-06:00

ID

120154

Comment

Is Melton saying he will test every single student? Or saying that every single student will be in the pool for a random test? (As opposed to a certain group, such as sports participants or some other group)....

Author

Izzy

Date

2005-08-09T09:34:52-06:00

ID

120155

Comment

Not to mention it (art) is therapeutic and helps kids learn to relate and express themselves. I think any art therapist can tell you the dramatic changes that can be witnessed in individuals when exposed to art. Oh, and there's that little fact that art and music are known to increase grade averages and further the understanding of simple and complex mathematics. Is it possible there's a relationship in increased, youth crimes and decreased funding for Arts programs in our schools? Seriously, if we want to reduce delinquency, pushing for a stronger and required arts curriculum in JPS may actually be the best way to make a dramatic change.

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T09:37:17-06:00

ID

120156

Comment

[quote] "The only way that I can know to do it without profiling and selecting certain kids is just to test everybody," said Melton.[/quote] Laurel, that quote was the original quote that stirred this discussion.

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T09:38:36-06:00

ID

120157

Comment

oi vey!

Author

Izzy

Date

2005-08-09T09:41:54-06:00

ID

120158

Comment

oi vey to the every single one peeing in a cup i mean...as far as arts education goes I can see that having an outlet for expression is a healthy way to deal with difficult emotions...perhaps a better way to handle it and possibly prevent a drug addiction, hmmm...

Author

Izzy

Date

2005-08-09T09:43:40-06:00

ID

120159

Comment

But, Laurel, no one would believe a bleed heart liberal promoting the arts as a way to prevent future addiction and crime. That's just Communist! ;-)

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T09:45:57-06:00

ID

120160

Comment

Did someone say communist? I'm all about arts education...but, I'm also all about being realistic. I need somewhere for these children to GO after school..during the summers..on the weekends. Whether this is an after school program that supports arts or drug education...I can't be that picky. ;) JUST GIMME!

Author

Lori G

Date

2005-08-09T09:49:30-06:00

ID

120161

Comment

jeez, maybe better to convince 'em with the Mozart studies---better productivity, better math grades, etc.

Author

Izzy

Date

2005-08-09T09:50:46-06:00

ID

120162

Comment

though i wonder about those Mozart studies--are there multi-cultural counterparts for increasing brain function.

Author

Izzy

Date

2005-08-09T09:53:24-06:00

ID

120163

Comment

are there multi-cultural counterparts for increasing brain function I sure would like to think so. For instance, my 7-year-old niece belongs to a dance team at her church, and she's been doing it for three years. She's had good grades since she started school, and I think that had something to do with it. They often practice at the Champion Gymnasium on Hattiesburg St., and the dance instructor, Bridget Archer, has ballet and jazz classes for girls. They even get to perform once a year at Thalia Mara Hall, and I know it makes them all feel like little superstars. There is also Mr. Lyles, who teaches Tae Kwon Do. My nephew stayed it just long enough to get a yellow belt, but I think it did help him with his coordination and thought processes.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-09T10:02:29-06:00

ID

120164

Comment

Martial arts also teaches responsibility and respect. It's the basic code of the artform. Not only would arts enrichment courses wake up these young people's minds, it would provide creative outlets for stress, tension, and peer pressure. It would also help grades... And, I have a sneaking feeling it could make Jackson's public schools more attractive to potential residents. You know what that means? Increased tax-base to help fund the program and maybe a little extra for random drug tests. ;-)

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T10:11:35-06:00

ID

120165

Comment

I remember when the C-L and JPS would take pictures of kids who made honor roll or who won awards for their art or essays. When I was in junior high, the news woul come to Northwest Jackson to interview the yearly spelling bee winner. Whatever happened to all of that?

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-09T10:58:46-06:00

ID

120166

Comment

Talk to the C-L's new publisher and see if you can get them to start doing it again. And while your there ask him if he will get his folks to actually investigate and report on things.

Author

Johann

Date

2005-08-09T15:36:35-06:00

ID

120167

Comment

Talk to the C-L's new publisher and see if you can get them to start doing it again. And while your there ask him if he will get his folks to actually investigate and report on things.

Author

Johann

Date

2005-08-09T15:38:12-06:00

ID

120168

Comment

Wow deja vu

Author

Johann

Date

2005-08-09T15:39:08-06:00

ID

120169

Comment

Communist, Mozart, dance, martial arts, love this thread! Yes, Knol, martial arts is/are an artform. And probably better than dance overall. I love Tai Chi myself, but that's too tame for kids. I love Kung Fu also, know any good instructors? Community Ed. -is that in Jackson? (not in Vicksburg, sigh) Some things at Millsaps but not for kids. Good ideas here. Way better than testing for pete's sake. What does that do but harm, not help?

Author

haupc

Date

2005-08-09T16:11:46-06:00

ID

120170

Comment

while i agree with all that's being said here, if you have a mayor determined to be 'crime bustin' and he wants to drug test schools, you aren't gonna get him going in another direction by singing the praises of art class. it doesn't matter if its true, its not gonna be heard. what will be heard is an alternative 'crime bustin' tact (note i didn't say "an alternative TO a 'crime bustin' tact"). easiest target? the people dealing to these kids. you can sell that to him.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-09T18:20:53-06:00

ID

120171

Comment

Well, sh!t, jp!... You're basically saying no matter what we say or how we say it, unless we speak to his agenda, we have no voice. I just don't get it... That's the whole problem with "mandate madness"... It goes straight to the, er, head. I just don't understand why you feel it's even worth voicing an opinion though you do it daily in the blogosphere (not unlike what's going on here). From what I'm reading, you are saying there's no point in dissent... There's no point in questioning... There's no point in a constitution... Because Melton's going to do what Melton's going to do and @#$! you if you can't speak to his Bottom Line though you pay his taxes. That's so not your style and I know this for a fact. If I understand correctly, you're suggesting we point out the positives of going for their [K-12] dealers rather than actually addressing and implementing LONG LASTING policies and programs that will put their dealers out of business (or at least drain some of the bulk of their accounts) and prevent many of them from following that path. I don't think we have to tell Melton that he should go for the big guys... He's going for them all including first graders (so it seems). It sounds like he needs to know of alternatives to TESTING that have proven, track records not only in reducing drug addiction but increasing grades and a tax-base because those are the kind of schools parents really want for their children.... It's hardly worth our time to point out the culprits to arrest. He knows of them and has stressed that since pre-election. He even seems to know their names and addresses. Seems like what he's missing is a plan to actually keep more from filling their shoes. Luckily, there will be one more empty building over near HWY 80. I hear it even has surveillance. Maybe we can use that as an air coniditioned holding tank for K-12 reefer heads. There is, after all, a park across the street. ;-)

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T18:53:33-06:00

ID

120172

Comment

Knol, what empty building? Is a business closing?

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2005-08-09T19:11:12-06:00

ID

120173

Comment

Was a reference to the closing of the AVC (aka "the sex shop" per WLBT).

Author

kaust

Date

2005-08-09T21:15:20-06:00

ID

120174

Comment

well, there is a difference in voicing an opinion and trying to undo what he's doing. again, i'm not trying to badmouth anyone saying "i don't like this", etc. but i'm just saying something specific will have to be done to point him in another direction. I am not trying to say "go after the dealers, that's more important than longterm policies and programs" i certainly don't feel that way, but its like comparing battles to wars. I guess i feel that he wants to fight this, starting with students and he wants to 'bust' somebody. that's his fixation and that won't be exchanged for afterschool programs. i'm not saying we shouldn't have those or that he wouldn't do those sorts of things. none the less, he's set on busting someone and that sorta energy is going to be directed somewhere, and i think it shouldn't be towards 9th graders. so what do we do? he's going to do something, so its best to point him in a different direction. this isn't meant to be an alternative, but rather a deflection into a better direction. He's a bull on the charge and that charge is going to go somewhere. we SHOULD have something better than a bull charging around. truly. but that doesn't change the fact that we've got one on the march now and someone's going to have to point to a different direction, and that will work (i think) better with persuasion rather than attemptin coersion. not that there can't be some righteous discontent too... again, this is something that'd be better discussed/expressed in person, as i'm not able to appropriately address it here in this forum (as much as i enjoy it). my apologies for my lack of clarity.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-10T00:07:47-06:00

ID

120175

Comment

this argument seems a little like this: a man has a gun shooting bullets. the gun is going off. we don't want him to shoot anyone but he's going to shoot so let's work together to point him towards a tree. (poor tree) what would a martial artist do with this blustery energy?

Author

Izzy

Date

2005-08-10T08:21:45-06:00

ID

120176

Comment

Can someone help confirm or disprove something I've heard? I was recently told that Melton had been reported saying that we wanted to do away with Jackson's alternative school and ship all the kids on in school suspension to the police academy... It sounds so ridiculous it has to be a Meltonic statement. But I was told it was reported on WJTV not his usual WLBT mouthpiece, o I'm leery of it. Can't find anything at any local news site.

Author

Johann

Date

2005-08-10T08:45:46-06:00

ID

120177

Comment

while i agree with all that's being said here, if you have a mayor determined to be 'crime bustin' and he wants to drug test schools, you aren't gonna get him going in another direction by singing the praises of art class. No, jp, you do it by talking publicly and loudly about the problems, constitutional and otherwise, of trying to drug-test every child in a district. And it strikes me that you seem concerned that people are trying to challenge Mr. Melton in such a way. I'm really not understanding your posts here.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2005-08-10T09:55:32-06:00

ID

120178

Comment

oh, i don't disagree with you, DL. i'm not saying not to do those things or that they aren't right. what i'm saying is this. if it can be avoided through redirection, that is better and more immediate. I'm not concerned with people challenging him at all. what I am concerned about is stopping the matter and what is the most efficient way to do that (which may not be the same thing). i want to avoid being proven right by having some kid suffer a constitutional violation, then have a resulting lawsuit which, indeed show's melton to be totally wrong. there are different ways to do that, and i'm not saying to avoid any of them. what i AM saying is that there are more expedient ways to get what we want and those should be the priority.

Author

jp!

Date

2005-08-10T12:07:39-06:00