horselover wrote on Apr 22, 2008 6:09 AM:
" Honestabe, I don't believe you are able to diagnose people either. As far as the military, well I'm not patting myself on the back just pointing out to you that I know what FREEDOM is and although we haven't had attacks here does not mean that I didn't serve in a combat zone and then you to call me names and everyone else that doesn't agree.
Look back on your posts....everything from telling someone they should not "reproduce" , you are just sarcastic.
And thank you too Sully as you mentioned you are a vet!! "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 22, 2008 12:17 AM:
" horselover, You should get some counseling to work on your paranoia.
You didn't save me from anything, you enlisted in a voluntary military, and there have been no full scale invasions of our borders while I've been alive, just some psycho terrorists that hit a few targets. I tried to serve and they shunned me, maybe I am bitter.
I really hate it when vets pat themselves on their back and expect everyone to bow to them. I'm greatful for your service, but not how you boast about it and expect special treatment... respect is earned. "
Sully wrote on Apr 21, 2008 4:20 PM:
" Thanks for your service horselover. "
horselover wrote on Apr 21, 2008 7:39 AM:
" Honestabe, I served 20 years in the military for you to spew....then for you to cut everyone down that doesn't agree with "you".....take a look in the mirror. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 21, 2008 2:36 AM:
" horselover, you are correct, it is your freedom and right to do so.
You should get some counseling to work on your paranoia.
;) "
horselover wrote on Apr 20, 2008 5:25 PM:
" Honestabe, happy 4-20??? Is that a personal threat to me personally?? How should I take that?? I am entitled to my opinion just as well as anyone else. And, it hasn't changed as I have the FREEDOM to my opinion. "
Lana wrote on Apr 20, 2008 3:37 PM:
" Hohrselover: First of all, I did go to the school first. I was told that it was a screening to get useful information. Nobody seemed to be able to tell me why they needed it. Just that it was no big deal and they didn't tell anyone about it. No chance for anyone to voice an opinion on the matter. Convenient..
You really need to get your facts straight before criticizing someone. I went to the school secretary, then to the school nurse, then to the superintendent, then to a few teachers, then to the paper. So.. I went to as many people as necessary all whom could give me no answers. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 20, 2008 3:46 AM:
" """You giving advice to a young girl, remember didn't you say you were OHS 88!! """
Wow, what is that, I read it 3 times and still it doesn't make sense. I had no clue this student was a girl, just a citizen that was infringed upon.
Well, at least your horses agree with you.
Have a NICE day! "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 20, 2008 3:39 AM:
" The best thing you have said that is right on is this;;;;;;;
"really I could care less"
All your posts reflect that, you could care less about how this country was formed, and founded on freedoms and rights. You could care less about people being infringed upon.
Yep, you're right on with that! "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 20, 2008 3:36 AM:
" horselover, it is you that tries to take personal stabs when you can't win an argument, a sign you are frustrated and don't have anything intelligent left to add.
Step on my toes, but why try cheap shots like trying to pin me to accountability, when I do not have to be held accountable for my actions while posting my opinions.
You're arguments are weak, your slams are weak, and you are weak in your stances, you can't back what you say, thus, it is YOU that is not accountable, just spewing.
Happy 4-20! "
horselover wrote on Apr 20, 2008 1:29 AM:
" Honestabe, really I could care less, I guess it is okay for you to dish it out to people but by God don't step on your toes.....
I could give a crap about what the govt. thought of "reefer Maddness", was only poking fun at you. You giving advice to a young girl, remember didn't you say you were OHS 88!!
And yes, I do love my horses, all 15 of them!! "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 19, 2008 4:10 PM:
" horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 6:29 PM:;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;;
If that was your attempt at a stab at me, you've failed hardcore.
Reefer madness was one of the biggest lies the govt has told the people, and does not surprise me you buy into it.
Go 'love' your horse. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 19, 2008 4:05 PM:
" and for people that are going to pick that apart and say they didn't probe ..... it's a metaphor
If that confuses you, www.dictionary.com "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 19, 2008 4:04 PM:
" In reaply to "there are always 2 sides" wrote on Apr 17, 2008 3:58 PM:;;;;;;;;;;
I sound like an angry person? Not as a generalization, it's just that stupid people get me riled a bit.
It seems you are just a control freak, and you think that your kids should have MORE control imposed on them, even if it means losing your rights and freedoms.
I'm not angry, trust me, but when people go belly up and don't mind authorities probing their orifices for any reason ... it does upset me that there are such lackadaisical people on earth. "
Sully wrote on Apr 19, 2008 2:20 PM:
" The problem is the amount of government in our lives. It never stops. It is difficult to think of things that the government does not monitor, regulate, legislate, or tax. Yes some laws are needed, however the amount of freedom we give up never stops. Now we are hassling the Amish about building permits. Their house, their land, their family. No one else will ever live in it but the Amish. Yet they are hauled into court. What does the government not monitor, regulate, legislate, or tax? "
Nikki Beaverhausen wrote on Apr 19, 2008 8:52 AM:
" Sully, you are right. By some of the responses here it seems many have already succumbed to the incremental change. Some have expressed lines that no one would cross......yet. It will take several more incremental steps before a toe is up against the line and then when they step over it, it won't seem so agregious. Years ago, birth control in schools would never fly, now it's merely an argument, "they're going to do it anyway, don't you want them to be protected?" Next it's the abortion pill, it won't be but a few more years before it gets the same argument. The point is, WHY are we giving up our rights? "
horselover wrote on Apr 19, 2008 6:37 AM:
" Sully, 25 years ago they didn't have computers....100 years ago we didn't have much and people pretty much were on their own. Could you imagine a world of people doing what ever when ever they want??? No rules, no laws, just "freedom"......and everyone "home schooled" or had small schools that taught what the group of people felt necessary. I agree things have changed, but so have people. "
horselover wrote on Apr 19, 2008 6:25 AM:
" Also Lana, I would think that most parents would like to know their child is on birth control or that they had an STD, but this is considered "confidential" and parents do not need to be notified. You feel your rights were violated over this "minor incident". You went to the paper first then to the school, you chose to bring this about and you feel you are right, you are entitled to your opinion, it has been published and you have gotten responses, will be a nice addition to your scrape book. "
horselover wrote on Apr 19, 2008 6:17 AM:
" So, did you find most parents are agreeing with what you did?? I guess I would have talked to the school about it had I been so concerned, but certainly not gone to the paper, but that was your choice and your way to make your point. The school district has been targeted enough lately. What next, a law suit for violating your rights??? I just find it hard to accept people who are always feeling like they are victims over little things. Now, had this issue been about the abortion/pill issue, then I would be siding with you. Sorry. Just more important issues in life is all. but, that is jmo "
Sully wrote on Apr 19, 2008 3:19 AM:
" People will say with each new change....What's the big deal? It's only a little thing. Yet the small things add up over time. Our freedoms as Americans are eroding all the time. If you think I am wrong name one area where we have more freedom now than we did 25 years ago, or 100 years ago. I am glad that Lana and others get it. "
Sully wrote on Apr 19, 2008 3:12 AM:
" Look at taxes. People blindly pay dozens of taxes each day. Plus all the big ones that are stolen... I mean deducted from your paycheck before you even get your money. For your convenience of course. Yet at some point each tax was sold to the people as a needed often temporary little tax for our own good. Yet they are here for good and go up often. Incremental change is not to be taken lightly. At each freedom or right given up or weakened it gets that much easier to take or weaken the next one. "
Sully wrote on Apr 19, 2008 3:03 AM:
" Mom123 I am still here. Thurs. and Fri I have almost no time for news/blogs. I thought this one would be dead by now. I see it is not.
To all of you who get what the problem here is about, thanks for sharing. It is good to see that I am not the only "nut". Those of you who don't probably never will. I will always share my opinion, but I do not have the time or need to change anyone's mind. The question that people need to answer for themselves is this. If I am wrong the world has another ranting nut-job. We can live with that. If I am right we are systematically being trained to be sheep. Can we live with that? "
Twilite wrote on Apr 19, 2008 12:14 AM:
" Spartakids: Of course abortion/birth control and the screenings are different procedures, but we're talking about parental notification. In which case, the issues are alike. "
Lana wrote on Apr 18, 2008 8:40 PM:
" Actually.. I did go to the press. I went to the press because I wanted people to know that this was happening.
Since nobody seemed to be able to tell me what exactly was happening, why it was happening and how it came about.. I figured the press would be able to get it.
The papers can reach alot of people. You all found out because of the paper didn't you? So I succeeded in letting people know what was happening at their school.. They now can either support the school or not. Up to them.. But at least they know know and have a choice.. "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 18, 2008 5:41 PM:
" horselover-I am so very glad that you are not my grandmother. I love my grandmother...she's the best! Yea you might be a good grandmother but I would never know and I don't want to. And I am old enough to understand and take what is said in the "real" world. So I think I can take your comments. I am old enough to be able to WALK AWAY. and sorry if MY comments offend anyone! "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 18, 2008 5:40 PM:
" But like my mother said...I'm not going to sit here and justify myself to you. It's a waste of time. If you don't have the same views that's completely fine...I respect it. I don't like it...but I respect it. So all I ask is you take into consideration of how we feel and think before you say something ridiculous. If that's too much to ask then maybe I'm not dealing with adults. Maybe I am and they "just don't care". You all have lived longer than me to understand these things. I thought maybe you adults would be a little more understanding of both sides. And some of you do..which is great.
"
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 18, 2008 5:31 PM:
" And you can't protect your kids from everything. Your kids will ALWAYS be around that stuff no matter if they are at home, in school, in public...ANYWHERE, that stuff is there. TV, Magazines, Internet.
And that whole abortion and birth control thing is something so completely different to this case. It's wrong. But there are things being done about it. So the same thing is being done about this particular case....SOME ACTION! "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 18, 2008 5:30 PM:
" there are always two sides, horselover, and Twilite- I am not getting affended by your comments. Yea there are some kids here that aren't so good. I'm not disputing that. BUT I think that it is not schools position to be administering those tests without SOME consent. Like the parents for example. Which in this case no consent was varified. And by the way...I am not naive. My mother did NOT go to the paper. They came to her. So she didn't run to them...they came to her. When they asked for a quote...she gave it to them. You'd do the same on a situation you were defending.
"
Lana wrote on Apr 18, 2008 5:24 PM:
" Thank you justducki.. That was my whole point summed up in your perfect statement. "
Lana wrote on Apr 18, 2008 5:23 PM:
" Horselover: I would be very disappointed in you if you were my mom too. As a parent you should never be disappointed in your child for doing what they think is right. Maybe you just need to look a little deeper and see what is wrong.
FYI.. my Mom and my Dad are both proud of me. They are proud that I am standing up for my rights as a parent. Standing up for my children.
I also never said I felt violated. I said I felt my rights as a parent were sidestepped. Big difference there.
The point of going to the paper was to get response. It was to get notice to the other parents that this was happening. Even if they agree with it, they still have a right to know. "
Lana wrote on Apr 18, 2008 5:16 PM:
" Let me just say that I have never intended on getting you all riled up. You are all allowed your opinion. I do not understand why you feel that just because I do not agree with what happened means I am hiding something or in denial.
I don't think it is right to do that without the consent of a parent. Plain and simple. You choose what is best for you. What you believe in. Right? Why is is so wrong that I do the same thing?
Like I said, if it works for you then great. It just doesn't work for me. The Superintendent agrees with me. They screwed up. If the school is admitting they should have contacted the parents, then what is the problem? They have already admitted I was right. "
justducki wrote on Apr 18, 2008 3:42 PM:
" Lana, I have to agree with you. Our parental rights do not terminate when our children walk through the door of any school. I still have elementary aged children, but I expect to be notified in advance of extras to their curriculum, such as a health screening, in general I have no issue with a health screening taking place but I do have a problem if I am not provided the common courtesy of being told that the event is to take place. "
there are always 2 sides wrote on Apr 18, 2008 3:15 PM:
" spartakids...cool down!
I have no doubt you are a wonderful kid...but take a good long look around you...are ALL of the kids you look at so wonderful..I bet not...its those that are not so wonderful that are ruining it for the rest of you.
Just because we dont all agree with you and your mom, we are not the enemy...I am concerned about my kids in school..if drug testing weeds out the problem ones..I am all for it! The less drugs in school the better!
That is just my opinion...Im not mudslinging anyone! "
Twilite wrote on Apr 18, 2008 2:57 PM:
" Spartakids: I'm glad to see you still have some naive views - I think kids should be naive. Unfortunately, even if your sister is responsible - many 14 year olds are not. And the point I was making was not that these kids are all irresponsible. But, rather that for a middle school aged child to get an abortion or birth control, no parental notification is needed. So, why is it that notification is needed to do a simple health screening? As I have said before, we used to do these screenings in our health or phys. ed. classes. Not a big deal. And your bp? Kids can go to that machine at wal-mart and do it themselves. Do they need parental notification then? "
horselover wrote on Apr 18, 2008 2:10 PM:
" Spartakids; I hate to burst your bubble and I'm sorry you feel offended by the comments. You probably should not be reading them if they bother you that much.
Now, being that I'm old enough to be your grandmother, this is only my opinion, but I would be disappointed if your mom was MY daughter....that she would go to the paper and cause such a fuss about a minor incident then get all bent out of shape because she felt violated over this matter. Now, with that said, had it not appeared in the paper, you would not have gotten any response. "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 18, 2008 2:08 PM:
" there are always 2 sides- By you saying that parents who are making a big deal out of this either know that their kids are maybe doing drugs or just don't want to know if they are...is RIDICULOUS! My mom knows I'm not on drugs and WOULD want to know IF I ever was.
These parents here are dedicated to their children. Yea Sparta has it's ups and downs BUT so do other cities. You really need to get some legitament facts on us that other cities DON'T have if you want to call us out on EVERYTHING bad that we do. Back your facts up! (something relevant too, not something you pull out of nowhere)
Have you seen any of the good things we do? NO! Because all you want to see is the bad!
"
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 18, 2008 1:41 PM:
" mom123- You are also amazing. I can tell you actually have a great head on your shoulders! It's great that there are other mothers out there that are like mine. Your kids must be proud!! I know I'm very proud of my mom. She is the most wonderful peron I know. I love her with all my heart!
THANKS FOR EVERYTHING TO THOSE WHO ARE HELPING US!!
TO THOSE WHO AREN'T...I'M SORRY YOU FEEL THAT WAY...you are intitled to your own opinion and I respect that. But don't try and force yours on people who don't agree. Respect their opinions...you DON'T have to like them. "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 18, 2008 1:35 PM:
" Twilite- Just because my sister who is fourteen has access to birth control or getting an abortion does not mean that she will. She is a great kid and is very responsible and wouldn't EVER think of doing drugs or having sex at the age of fourteen. She is a very responsible fourteen year old. PLUS she would ALWAYS come to my mother with her problems IF ever something did happen.
Facts Only- Just because my mother is standing up for what she believes in does NOT mean she is blowing it out of proportion! You would do the same if it was a situation you believed in and no one else agreed with.
HonestAbe- Thanks again for helping. You're amazing!!
People who are against us...Back Off! Honestly. Don't you have something better to do than to criticize my mother and those you don't agree with?? "
mom123 wrote on Apr 18, 2008 11:10 AM:
" Those still questioning Lana's position need to go back and re-read comments from the beginning. Especially Sully's. Where are you lately Sully?? I see Honest Abe has given up. Lana - - I don't think you need to defend yourself anymore. Those who don't see where you're coming from just simply don't get it. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 18, 2008 10:22 AM:
" Also if a police officer pulled my child over, demanded a breathalyzer, searched the car and what not, I'd be okay with that, because my child would have nothing to hide. If they did they would be found out and the would have to be accountable for their actions. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 18, 2008 10:09 AM:
" Lana-How is the school taking my child's BP constitute them doing my job for me? I'm not sure it does. YOU have personally blown this situation out of proportion. "
Twilite wrote on Apr 18, 2008 9:56 AM:
" Lana - your daughter that is 14 can choose to get birth control or an abortion without your permission. Why are you making such a big deal about giving permission for a harmless screening? "
Lana wrote on Apr 18, 2008 9:55 AM:
" horselover:
No. I did NOT say that. The school nurse said that. She was the one who said "no we did not tell them it was optional. If we did, no one would participate."
If it becomes manditory, I will make a decision based on the information that I hope they will provide me with.
Please read what you just wrote. I am sure you cannot have possibly meant to say that I should not teach my children that they can say no to things they do not agree with.
You are welcome to teach your children to follow the pack, but I prefer to teach my children to lead the pack. You are welcome to teach your children to do as they are told, but I prefer to teach my children to do what is right. "
Lana wrote on Apr 18, 2008 9:38 AM:
" When you get a job that does drug testing, you are required to be notified of intent to test.
Generally it is in the orientation process. You then have to decided if you want to participate. If you do not, then yes.. they may well not give you the job. Yes it might make you look like you are hiding something. However it is still a choice that you are allowed to make. "
Lana wrote on Apr 18, 2008 9:30 AM:
" Onemom22: I completely understand what you are trying to say. But you are still missing the point. It isn't the testing that is the problem.
It is that they did not include the parents in the decision to do this. The school is just that. It is a school. It is not a clinic. Even at the clinic you have to give them permission to treat your child.
"
horselover wrote on Apr 18, 2008 7:34 AM:
" So are you saying Lana that if they told the kids they were testing for "drugs", no one would do it. Well, when it becomes manditory are you going to send your kids to a private school or home school?? If we teach them now that they CAN say NO to these things, they will have a tough life. I grew up respecting authority, got spankings and boy, if I did something at school that was naughty parents knew before I got home and then my parents disciplined me for being disrespectful. Never once was I told by any adult that my rights were violated. "
onemom22 wrote on Apr 17, 2008 11:10 PM:
" Lana, we arent teaching our kids to not question authority, but teaching them to not take issue with everything. Have you ever worked with someone who takes issue with everything... irritating. Most employers drug test so if the kids want a job, refusing such a thing only makes them look suspicious. "
Lana wrote on Apr 17, 2008 10:05 PM:
" As for the childrens rights.. yes, I feel those were violated too. It appears that alot of parents teach their children to "do as they are told" and to "not question authority". This is okay for certain situations, however, when it is taught by their paernts they have a tendancy to not realize that they do have a right to "just say no". Had things been explained to them when they walked thru the door and immediately told it was optional, I wonder how many would have left.
According to my conversations with the school nurse, she told me they did not tell them it was optional because then none of them would participate. That tells me that they were hoping the kids would not know they had a choice. "
Lana wrote on Apr 17, 2008 10:05 PM:
" I am not sure what you are confused about. I have made my position very clear.
It is my right as a parent to know who is testing my children, why they are testing my children and what they hope to accomplish by it. Seriously.. is that to much to ask? Is it to much to ask that a school that wants and expects parental cooperation to be expected to communicate with the parents?
Not all the kids knew. They knew kids were being called to the office, but most had no idea why.
continued above "
horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 6:56 PM:
" Lana, okay, I'm confused. If this is about choice then why the big deal?? Could your daughter have said "no" if she felt her rights violated or is it "your" right that was violated?? Obviously the kids all knew about it as I'm sure they talk.....you are setting the example for your child and other children.
Honestabe; your arragance shows, who made you the person incharge of "birth control" anyway, maybe some controlled on your side might help the world too......just my opinion. "
horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 6:29 PM:
" I think honestabe has been trying to tell us he smokes pot and owns his own business.......that's accountability!!! Reefer maddness!! "
Lana wrote on Apr 17, 2008 5:36 PM:
" I have forgotten to thank Superintendent John Hendricks for his immediate attention to this matter. He did handle it with priority and it is very much appreciated. "
Lana wrote on Apr 17, 2008 5:20 PM:
" If the children have to have accountability, then why do you feel that the school doesn't have to have it? That makes no sense.
Read the paper and get the facts. It isn't about the testing anyway. It is about the right to choose.
"
Lana wrote on Apr 17, 2008 5:16 PM:
" It is not really a matter of seeing the other side. At least not for me.
I completely see the other side. I see that the schools want so desperately to get rid of drugs and alcohol that they sometimes make a mistake and cross lines that shouldn't be crossed.
The wrong thing done for the right reasons is still the wrong thing.
How would you feel if your child was driving home from school and got pulled over by the police. They insist your child get out of the car and do a breathilizer test for no reason? They detain your child and search their car. You child calls you and tells you what is happening. Wouldn't you want to know what was going on and why it was happening?
"
there are always 2 sides wrote on Apr 17, 2008 3:58 PM:
" honestabe..Thank you, but I am one of the most dedicated parents that you would know. I am very much a part of my kids lives and I am raising them to be well adjusted individuals. I have a very good and caring relationship with all of them and will always be there for them..but I have no problem with the school testing for drugs...you never know...it could be your kids (I dont ever say it will never happen to me).
You sound like a very bitter angry person...life must be really unhappy for you?
Funny how these things always bring out the mudslinging people...that dont care to hear anyones side but thier own. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 17, 2008 3:34 PM:
" there are always 2 sides, well, if you're ok with not being a parent and want to leave it up to the govt and school, you shouldn't have kids!!
You refer to the 'big ole world' ... wth? You sound insignificant and probably need intervention from outside sources.
Step up and be a parent, take them to the doctor, and get mad when your rights are stepped on.
The issue here isn't the tests, and if you don't see the issue, then I think there should be an IQ test for people to have kids, which would be another freedom lost, but in your case, it would have been a good freedom lost. "
there are always 2 sides wrote on Apr 17, 2008 3:30 PM:
" It kind of makes me think that the parents that are making the big issue..either know that their kids are maybe using drugs..or dont want to know if they are... if you dont know what is going on..you dont have to deal with it?
Could they have students in sports? That would be an awful shame if the star player got caught using drugs...oh my...how dare the school! "
there are always 2 sides wrote on Apr 17, 2008 2:57 PM:
" Terri..I have kids in Cashton High School..and I SUPPORT the drug testing issues 100%. Kids need to learn ACCOUNTABILITY...and I dont see them learning that with mommy and daddy stepping up to the plate for them. When my kids get out in the big ole world..they wont be bent out of shape if an employer tells them they have to take a drug test...I as a parent wouldnt be offended by what happened in Sparta..Id be darn thankful if one of those tests happened to showed up an undetected medical problem. I dont understand what the big deal is...
But, that is just my opinion... "
horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 2:45 PM:
" I have 5 kids all over 25 and 9 grandkids...and I'm pretty sure if your 14 year old wants birth control and you say "no", where is her rights then?? She can go behind your back. I understand somewhat but think this was all blown out of preportion as if the school district doesn't have enough problems right now. Heck, if I was on the board I'd resign, let you all figure out how to run your school. I'm just an old observer, observing and giving my opinion that is all. "
mom123 wrote on Apr 17, 2008 1:32 PM:
" Horselover - - I don't think the BP/HR is the issue here. At least not by what was initiated in the article and the comments made. Yes, I'll be there when my child reaches employment/military age, but that's 4 years away. I won't be the legally responsible party then. My medical involvement doesn't end until 2015 though. Do you have school age kids? "
Lana wrote on Apr 17, 2008 1:29 PM:
" Well.. my daughter that was tested is 14 years old. She has a way to go before entering the workforce or the military. We are not talking about the kids that are about to make their way in the world. Those kids are "exempt" from the screening due to not being in school NEXT year. And yea.. will will always be with my kids no matter what they do in life. If I ever think that their rights are in question I will always be there to support them. Isn't that what a parent is supposed to do??
You are totally missing the point. The point is not that they did the testing. It is that they did it without following school procedure and without notifing the parents. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 17, 2008 1:10 PM:
" BrianG, "McSame" LOLOLOL!!!!! "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 17, 2008 1:06 PM:
" horselover said """".remember our rights as adults went out the window too when drug screening became available and depends on whether you get a job or not.""""
Not true, we have the right to start our own business or take a job that does not infringe upon our bodily fluids, that is a choice. Our rights are not out the window, we still get to decide.
They weren't probably wrong, .... they were!
I'm bent out of shape anytime an injustice happens. "
horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 1:03 PM:
" Mom123, you are right, sorry, I miss spoke. I'm sure their are a lot of "concerned" parents out there concerned about the school checking their child BP/HR....the nerve of the school. Taking the rights away from the kids and the parents....especially when these "kids" will be entering the work force soon or the military....mom, will you be there then too???? "
Hillbilly wrote on Apr 17, 2008 10:54 AM:
" Can you spell "totalitarianism?" If so, you are probably doing better than most school kids these days. "They who would give up an essential liberty for temporary security, deserve neither liberty or security," ~ Benjamin Franklin. "
BrianGSmith wrote on Apr 17, 2008 10:33 AM:
" If McSame wins the pResidency then we'll surely have medical exams at every high school across the USA as we pre=check those 18 years an older for the upcoming military draft. If parents and students are complaining now.....just wait until all eligible DRAFTEES have to take the DOD medical exam. Maybe the Pentagon was using the eye dialation tests to screen for future suicide soldiers. "
mom123 wrote on Apr 17, 2008 10:24 AM:
" Horselover - - how do you know "most" parents don't have a problem with it? Seems the posts on this comment board are about divided equally. Plenty of parents are discussing it. Just because they don't post on here, doesn't mean they don't have a problem with the school taking control and stepping over bounds. "
horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 8:26 AM:
" I'm not a school nurse, never wanted the hassle but they go through the same schooling. They should be aware of any/all medical problems any child has. I don't know why or how much they pay their school nurse or whatever. It's like a "double standard", yes, these kids have rights, but then we allow them to make decisions like birth control, so why are we getting all bent out of shape for BP, HR and pupil measurement when they simply could "just say no". Again we agree, they were wrong probably without asking permission but "most" parents don't have a problem with it, they did no harm to the students. Kids should be tested just like anyone who works....remember our rights as adults went out the window too when drug screening became available and depends on whether you get a job or not. "
Lana wrote on Apr 17, 2008 8:08 AM:
" I am not going to defend myself all day today. Either you agree with my choice or you don't.
I think it is wonderful that the school wants to make things safe for the kids. I think it is great that we have so many teachers that are really there for the kids.
However, I stand 100% behind my choice to insist on being notified of any future testing/ screening. It is my right as a parent to know exactly who has my childs information, why they have my childs information and what it is going to be used for.
I am ashamed that there are parents out there that do not care who does what to their children. It is a sad day when parents trust others to do their job for them. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 17, 2008 7:03 AM:
" SpartaKids, good for you, it's refreshing knowing that some younger people do know how to think for themselves.
Too many pill companies are involved in pushing thier product and too many kids are given prescriptions, instead of counseling, or lifestyle changes. Good for you to not want to be one of them. Isn't it funny too, how illegal drugs (i.e. pot) are demonized, and yet, the pill companies have commercials on TV? Not 1 overdose in history of pot, yet, pill companies are getting sued all the time for killing people, or maiming them.
Drugs are drugs no matter how it's wrapped. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 17, 2008 6:59 AM:
" horselover, how is being a school nurse, in and of itself ... being ... 'normal'. It's just another position within the school, and does raise concern as if you have all the right qualifications why you're not making a higher wage at a hospital or clinic. Summers off must be a nice perk, but uh .... what are you trying to say, maybe I'm missing something. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 17, 2008 6:56 AM:
" onamom, I think you need to read all responses, and a lot of your questions and arguments have already been made and answered.
Bottom line people, is this comes down to accountability and the right to have control of how your kids are treated, invasive or not.
Getting birth control is the kids personal choice, and they should not be subjected to have to go without, because they are of the age where they are starting to make choices, and may make the wrong one. That program is voluntary, school officials are not calling kids in and showing them how to use the items. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 17, 2008 6:52 AM:
" horselover said "The school was wrong maybe the way they went about it "
Well, right there you understand my stance and my problem with this.
Sorry if I offended your profession in some way, not intended. Guess the only point I was trying to make, is I trust my family doctor, that has my childs files on hand, and my total family history at thier fingertips ...moreso than some school nurse that works part-time, or the such.
"
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 17, 2008 6:49 AM:
" onemom22-
by suggesting that my mom may have something to hide is outragous. I am not on drugs. I have never done them nor will I EVER do them. It's a choice people make I choose not to. If it were my doctor doing the test...obviously it would be different. BUT it was the school doing it and I don't want to have to go to school every day wondering if they've come up with something new to test me on!! Ever heard of Teen Screen. It is a like a 10 minute test that tells you if you have a mental illness. I don't want to have to be on meds for some High False-Positive test. It's already been at schools in this area!!! Plus like 9 out of 13 of school shooters took that test and were on meds for it. "
horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 12:36 AM:
" Honestabe; you want to know what is normal?? Try going to school, maybe go to be a school nurse, then you would know about "normal". "
horselover wrote on Apr 17, 2008 12:25 AM:
" Honestabe; I understand the mom not knowing but then you say it's okay for a parent not to know about an abortion or the pill or an STD that they have to pay the medical bill. Point is, these "kids" could have said no without reprecussion. Please don't discount the school nurses position or responsibility....they are your first line of first aid (advanced). Simple eye exams and blood pressure/HR are non evasive procedures. Whether you agree with me our not but I have been in the medical field for over 35 years with 20 in the service.....If they offer free blood pressure screening or cholesterol, people like "free" things....and many would participate. The school was wrong maybe the way they went about it but it's been blown out of preportion already, partly due to the media. "
onemom22 wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:49 PM:
" Lana, do you trust the school that your kids go to? Then trust that the school knows what they are doing. My kids tell me the percentage of kids that "party" or such, and it is higher than you could ever imnagine!!! Try 90% NOT good. "
onemom22 wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:42 PM:
" maybe they are having a ongoing problem with drugs or such and it is an undercover operation. Now by sending out permission slips, it kinda defeats the purpose of a their goal. IF YOUR KIDS HAVE NOTHING TO HIDE THEN WHAT IS THE BIG ISSUE??? Lana, your making ot l;ook like you have something to hide. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:41 PM:
" mom123:
Exactly right. All I want to know is what the purpose of the screening was.
I am sure there will be a school board meeting and get some things cleared up.
There has to be a reason for it. It is just a matter of finding out what that reason is.
Who knows. It might be a really good reason. It might be a bad reason. We will not know until the proper information is given to us. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:33 PM:
" Onemom22: It is unfortunate that you think my concern for unauthorized "health screening" of my children makes Sparta look bad.
As a parent I have the right to know why "health screening" is being performed. What purpose does it serve? Did something happen at the school that could have been prevented by having this information? Without proper information I couldn't tell you. I have no idea and nobody seems to be able to tell me. There may well be a good reason. Who knows.
But until someone coughs up the information I stand by my choice to not have my children tested.
I assume that you have no concerns that the School Board and the Superintendant were clueless? Interesting.. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:23 PM:
" Facts only.. I personally do not care if you understand. Your inability to see the other side of the situation concerns me.
If my child is in a situation where they need healthcare, the school will and does call me. Why not this time? If one of them was seriously hurt, the school would call 911 and then call me. Hence the reason you fill out the emergency forms at the beginning of the year. They have all the medical information they need.
My children get regular check ups, physicals etc.. from their DOCTOR. I do not need the school to assume that responsibility. My doctor does a fantastic job. "
mom123 wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:20 PM:
" Are we sure that the screenings were done as 'what's best for the kids'? Was there a college student involved? Doing a research paper on blood pressure? I think parents just want some answers. Why the screening at school? What was the data going to be used for? Which department is heading this? "
onemom22 wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:09 PM:
" my "rights" as a parent and my kids "rights" as students are to know they are in an environment where it is drug-free. PERIOD. Lana, your making Sparta look bad. "
kitkat wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:07 PM:
" I'm shocked at the bickering on this blog. How is it that people can be so intolerant of another's view? Even if you don't agree with it, we all have the right to voice our opinions. It's just too bad that we can't seem to respectfully disagree with each other. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 16, 2008 10:33 PM:
" I am also fully aware of my rights as a U.S. citizen, thanks to my Civics class at SHS. I also think that if the school wants to do something for the good of the student body-go for it. I trust the administration at the school to what's in the best interest of my child. If my child gets hurt at school I sure as hell don't want them to withhold treatment until they can get ahold of me. The staff at the high school are educated to do what's right for our children, just as you trust that your tax preparer is educated to perform his/her job. Kudos SHS for doing what's best for the kids. Its just unfortunate that it happened in our fair city where any attempt at doing something right is scrutinized. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 16, 2008 10:27 PM:
" Lana-Should the school call you every time that they are going to be using a stapler in class? When they use glue? I don't see where you think your parental rights were breached. They were doing simple HEALTH screenings. In every class that your child takes they do something without your knowledge. So next time in health class when they check their pulse should we ring you up to make sure its okay? The school was just trying to be proactive in its approach to the kids' health. Would you be upset if your children were one of the six with dangerously high BP or they found a condition you weren't aware of? This is a complete non-issue, but with parents like you in Sparta no good deed goes unpunished. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 10:23 PM:
" The big deal is that they went behind our backs and took the liberty of "screening" our children without notifing us. Without an understanding of why they are doing this leaves it open for alot of questions.
Do you go to the doctor and allow them to do all kinds of testing on you without giving you a reason for the tests? I don't. I want to know what the tests are for and why they think I need them.
I feel the same way about these "screenings". I have the right to know.
You are welcome to "Just do it". Thankfully you now have a choice! "
onemom22 wrote on Apr 16, 2008 10:04 PM:
" If you have nothing to hide... whats the big deal? Just do it and get it over with. There are alot of things that are uncomfortable in life that you would rather not do, but "Thats Life" get over it. Maybe thats the lesson here!!! "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:56 PM:
" HonestAbe..Truce. We are on the same side. And I am super glad that we have someone like you on our side. You're smart and know what you're talking about, along with my mother and others!
And you don't have to apologize. I misread and didn't thoroughly read some things. I am very sorry and will in the future (hopefully there won't be a next time with this subject...haha) pay close attention to these things.
LOL! Well I am ready for bed..after all I am very tired from the testing! lol :):):)
Thanks for all you do! Keep up the good work!
;) "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:44 PM:
" Well said HonestAbe! There are just to many people that are okay to follow the pack.
Alot of kids are just afraid to stand up and say "No". They are taught from an early age to do as they are told and make no waves.
Unfortunately standing up for your rights also makes you a target and what high schooler wants to be a target. You always have at least one jerk in school that will pick on you.
So... they just go with the flow as a form of self protection.
"
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:36 PM:
" I think I'm going to open a home school supply shop in Sparta, I'd be RICH in a short period!
I always wondered about home schoolers ... but am now starting to see it, if you want control, don't send 'em.
I always thought it was religious freaks protecting little johnny from all the evils (truths) of the world ... but this whole incident has me rethinking that.
(although, any homeschoolers I've run across are god fanatics) "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:31 PM:
" SpartaKids, truce ... we're on the same side.
Sorry you took offense to my comment to "Master"
You must be tired after all the testing (hehe) ... I'll give you that *grin* "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:26 PM:
" Master .... of nothing.
Only taught for 2 years? hmmmm
Move up to custodian for wrongly treating students perhaps?
Any parent that gives you cart blac to do as you please to their kid is a control freak that is willing to give up their parenting role to you, and that is wrong. You can give dt and fail them, and that's it, that's your job. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:22 PM:
" horselover, again it comes down to personal freedoms. Do you really think a teen is going to get a big "OK" from dad to get some free birth control? Probably not. So, that is good that something is being done to control teen pregnancies.
What gets me, as you state, is ... how does this school nurse know what is 'normal' for this particular subject? They don't, but their family doctor knows their history, and may see their bp or pupil size as normal, from some past, known condition. The school nurse has no file of this students past medical records, so how do they know whats normal or not on this particular student?
Freedom of choice, which, includes healthcare and what makes up your childs day. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:17 PM:
" Lana, agreed LOL
There was a little misunderstanding there, no biggy.
Will be interesting to hear what comes of this .... tribune ... don't let us down, keep us up to date on this please. "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:15 PM:
" SpartaKids, I live in LaCrosse, '88 graduate of OHS.
I've had my rights stepped on before and do not like it, as our forefathers didn't like it.
These people that are praising the school for their actions are just ... well, politely said .... uneducated. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:15 PM:
" HonestAbe and Sparta Kids... You are of the same opinion. You both know that something wrong happened here.
SpartaKids misunderstood. Honest Abe was quoting what others were saying and responding to it in the same post.
Spartakids appologized for her misinterpretaion. HonestAbe may not have seen it before responding. The HonestAbe must have seen the apology. Honestly.. You are on the same team here.. :)Rights were stepped on.
"
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:14 PM:
" nope...no clue...what does it mean?? "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:12 PM:
" Master wrote on Apr 16, 2008 5:50 PM:
Wow, you haven't a clue!
baaaaa baaaaa "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 9:11 PM:
" I didn't mean that last one to be mean...I was just wondering if you did live here and what not because from what all you've said it sounds like you really know a lot about this stuff...which is great, really! "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:54 PM:
" I do know what makes America great, after a lot of people want to be here and would give anything to be here. I mean there are some people who get here illegally. So I do understand how great America is. And I do know my rights. And I feel that with this my rights were violated. As were many others. Especially the ones who were tested.
oh and do you even live in America? just curious!! "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:54 PM:
" Facts Only, these were not drug tests? Make sense out of this statement for me then;;;;;;;;
"""""While not “drug testing,” the information collected in he screenings could be used as baseline data if the Sparta School Board adopts a drug testing policy in the future, Hendricks said."""""" "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:52 PM:
" jeeze...I said I was sorry. And what's up with the sheep crap??? "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:47 PM:
" SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:42 PM:
affirmative
no prob "
HonestAbe wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:45 PM:
" SpartaKids, I believe in basic rights. If you don't see yours getting stepped on, then I'm really glad, as you are, that we are not related.
If you love America, ask yourself why, do you really know the differences in other nations, to your own?
Freedom, rights ... ... ... if you don't know when yours are being infringed upon, you are a sheep and have no clue what makes America great. shesh "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:42 PM:
" ok so yea kids can do that and get tested without the parents knowing, BUT that is all offered at a licensed company who can do those procedures. NOT schools! The school is for teaching NOT for medical issues. There are other places kids can go to get healthcare if they aren't access to it. If I'm sick I call home and go to a doctor at a hospital. I'm just saying what would you rather do, go to a place where there are licensed officials and equipment specialized just for helping your health OR going to the SCHOOL nurse who can just look at you and tell you that you need to go to the doctor? I think maybe I would just skip the whole school nurse thing and go to the doctor, because obviously I already know I need to see a doctor. "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:30 PM:
" response to RUSerious-
lol. Good point. You are completely right. They announced the kids to come down in like groups. They would announce it over the intercom. I was taking a test and they did it. It was so annoying having to stop class just so they could announce them to come down and get tested. And it wasn't just once. They announced it throughout the whole day. It took a week every day of doing that to get through the freshman.
"
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 8:22 PM:
" Gus&Ruby2-
In every PE class that I have been in we did not take tests like that. We don't take blood pressure or heart rate tests. The only thing we ever recorded remotely close to what doctors test was weight and height. And that isn't really even a test. It's just there. But we haven't done that for a couple years now. I remember always having to write down my weight and stuff like that. I hated it. It wasn't anyones business what I weighed or how tall I was. If anyone should know it, it would be my doctor and parents.
In PE we have fitness testing. We do the mile, we do sit-ups and push-ups, and we do flexibility. THAT is it. We don't sit there and test things doctors are suppose to. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 7:49 PM:
" I am not really sure where this all got to the point of confusion. Saying someone is not a "respectable" parent because they want to be informed of things concerning their children is absurd.
My concern was never that I didn't want the school involved. If you read the article, you will see where I stated that I appreciate that the school wants to help.
My complaint is that I was not informed of the screening or why it was being done.
Irregardless what it was for, I as a parent, have the right to know who is doing what with my children and WHY they are doing it.
"
Gradstudent wrote on Apr 16, 2008 6:27 PM:
" Did they just test BP, HR, and pupil size? When I was in middle school they included vision, hearing, and scoliosis screenings. I don't think we had permission slips, but they made announcements and might have even sent home flyers about it. I can see both sides of the argument. Did they strap the kids down or punish them? If not, then they were indeed optional. If I was a student and was that upset about it, I'd call home and ask if I had to do it or I'd just hide somewhere until they were done ;) Seriously though, basic testing is beneficial because some kids may not have access to healthcare at all and this could identify some conditions and allow them to get help that they need. A simple flyer and announcements would have done wonders. "
Master wrote on Apr 16, 2008 6:09 PM:
" I taught at the High School level for 2 years. The best students I ever had that were well behaved as well as exceptional learners were the ones where the parents would tell me if I had any problems with their kids that I should not be afraid to discipline them. They also said to let them know if I did have problems with their child. Low and behold I never had problems with those students, it was always with the ones with the parents that would complain if you gave their child detention or gave them an "F" on an assignment for cheating. Just think how productive these kids will gro up in life. "
horselover wrote on Apr 16, 2008 6:06 PM:
" Non evasive proceedure...pupil size can detect a very serious pituitary problem, although not common and often missed, pupil size is important as is the blood pressure and pulse. The school should have at least notified the parents but then again, your child can get birth control without your permission or have an abortion or be treated for STD, but don't take their blood pressure and HR as well as pupil size?? Where does this all start and end...... "
CJ wrote on Apr 16, 2008 5:54 PM:
" Katie did you use up all your moms dial up already today??? "
Master wrote on Apr 16, 2008 5:50 PM:
" All I can say is good for Sparta. As a parent of 2 kids I applaude the administration that wants to do what is right. If they were testing for drugs good for them. If they were testing for medical reasons good for them. We should commend them for wanting to do what is right. If parents are worried about their child failing a drug test then shame on them for their kids welfare. Schools as well as employeers should be testing for drugs. Kids have enough problems in life and if you throw drugs into the mix they will be just as screwed up as the people are who are complaining about this. If they feel so stongly about allowing their kids to use drugs then maybe they should start their own private school. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 5:42 PM:
" Thanks Sully. I just wish more people understood. This could have been avoided by sending a notice and consent form. Super simple.
Mom123: That is exactly right. What was the purpose behind it? Why did they feel these were needed? "
Sully wrote on Apr 16, 2008 5:26 PM:
" I find it odd that all the it's OK sheep will not respond to the question? Where is the line. What is too much. Me Thinks has hit it right on, ad people do not see. Lana great job
you totally get it. "
mom123 wrote on Apr 16, 2008 5:06 PM:
" If the test only COULD be used as a baseline, why were they really taking the tests? Who initiated them? If the board didn't know about them and the superintendent didn't know about them, who did? Just the principal, he decided on his own to do this? What was the purpose? To find 6 kids out of 600 some in 9th - 11th grade with high blood pressure? "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 5:02 PM:
" No Facts only.. They did not do any of those things. What they did was go behind my back and give health screening to my child without my knowledge or permission.
If they did not do anything wrong, why was it suspended?
Why did the Superintendant not know? Why did the School Board not know?
"
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 4:58 PM:
" Facts only..
So you are saying that because they didn't say is was optional or mandatory that makes it okay? You are so wrong.
I have the right to say whether my children get health screening or not. Doctors can't just take your child off the street and give them a health check. They have to get your permission first. The school asks me permission to take them to the library or the park, why would they not ask me to do a screening?
You really need to do some research on what your rights are as American Citizens. Well.. you probably don't care. You seem to be quite content letting others make your decisions for you. Good luck with that. I personally like to decide for myself.
"
RUSerious wrote on Apr 16, 2008 4:42 PM:
" Shouldn't the teachers be outraged? Taking students out of class! What about no child left untested! I wonder if we will see the results of this after the next set of standardized tests...
I thought kids went to school to learn and to the doctor for medical screenings...
No wonder schools are in need of money... pretty soon they'll all be requesting and "needing" a full-time on staff doctor. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 16, 2008 4:35 PM:
" COULD be used as a baseline. COULD. Anyone in the medical field will tell you that the results of a BP test, HR test and a pupil measurement will not indicate if a child is on drugs any more than it will indicate that a child is autistic. These tests measure health, not drug use. I want to know how measuring the health of a child is taking away their rights or a parents' rights? Did they tell you that your child could no longer see the family physician? Did they tell you what your child had to eat and how much exercise a day your child had to do? No, they measured their heart rate, blood pressure and pupil diameter. Get over yourselves. This is not armageddon. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 4:26 PM:
" response to get real:
Real grown up.. Because I want to protect my rights, other parents rights and student rights it makes my children "dopers". Hmmm..
I guess you think that the police should be able to walk into your home at any time without a warrent too. After all.. what harm can it do?
You do not know that a specific child will do drugs. You do not know who will turn into alcholics. But hey.. you might, so lets take YOUR rights away! Lets prescreen you so that we have a baseline for when you get busted for selling dope to minors.. Because after all, you might..
Grow up and be responsible for your choice to be a parent. "
Twilite wrote on Apr 16, 2008 4:22 PM:
" Did you know that in most states, your high school/middle school child can get an abortion without your permission or any such notification? Why are vital signs such a big deal? "
Sully wrote on Apr 16, 2008 4:14 PM:
" So where is the line? No one has answered the question. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 16, 2008 4:09 PM:
" Lana-Your parental rights were not taken away, you can still take your child to the doctor whenever you like. The school wanted to guage the health of the student body, fine, and they did it non-invasively. Do they send home a permission slip to time your child's mile in gym, no. Yet they record that and use that in the future for various purposes. They didn't draw blood, or take urine. THESE WERE NOT DRUG TESTS. They may not have told the kids that it was optional but I know that they didn't tell them it was mandatory. I'm sorry your rights were stolen from you, maybe the police can help you find them, in the mean time I plan on congratulating our school officials on doing something to improve the health of the students. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:42 PM:
" You are quite welcome me thinks..
I do not understand it either.
We do not all have to agree. But we do need to respect others rights and opinions.
There are pros and cons to each side of this. I love that the school is willing to be involved, but they have a place and it should NEVER cross over the line. I know alot of people do not feel that it was crossed, but I do.
I am a parent that is proud to take responsibility of my children. I want them to know that they have rights.
I do not feel anyone has the right to make parental choices except the parent.
Whatever you call the testing. Heath screening, Drug testing. whatever. It is still wrong without parental constent. "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:42 PM:
" HonestAbe...sorry for bashing you. That was for who had said what you quoted. I read it wrong. sorry!! thanks for being on our side! "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:33 PM:
" More response to Facts Only:
I am more than capable of taking my children in for check-ups. I provide my children with sufficient health care and do not need the school to do it for me. If you want the school to do these things for you that is great. Sign a consent and give them permission to do so. I do not choose to do that. I want the responsibility of parenting my child. That is why I had them.
Our teachers have enough to do without having to police my childs health. They are not doctors. They are teachers. School nurses are great, but... when my child needs a physical or check-up, it will be with the doctor of MY choice. Not the schools... "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:32 PM:
" In response to Facts only:
I certainly do not feel that taking away my parental rights is over reacting. I am sure in a different situation when your rights are being bypassed you would feel differently.
If the superintendent didn't know, the school board didn't know.. then there is a definate problem at the high school. Whether it be in communications or something else. The ball was dropped, parents were not notified, personal information was being recorded for future use, and it was not announced as optional. That is the issue..
"
Me Thinks wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:26 PM:
" Thank You Lana. I don't see why people do not get it. "
EasilyAmused wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:15 PM:
" Please do not use this as an opportunity to blame the teachers of the district for this issue or other issues that aren't related to this. This wasn't our idea. We simply let the students leave when they were called out. Also, please do not misinterpret this. Not all students in our district are on drugs; it is so very unfair to label innocent young adults as drug addicts and "losers." Are we not adults here? "
Josie wrote on Apr 16, 2008 3:09 PM:
" I wonder if there is more to this. When they do hearing testing a note is always sent home to inform parents. You don't have to sign a permission slip, but you are notified. I find it odd that parents weren't notified. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:55 PM:
" I do agree that parent's should be the ultimate deterrent to using drugs, though. But again these WERE NOT drug test like so many people here seem to think they were. It's not the end of the world to have these screenings taken. Then again, be reading this blog, maybe it is. "
Facts Only wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:52 PM:
" No it doesn't concern me that the school wants to take my kids blood pressure, heart rate and check their eye pupil size. I don't think that that's so out of line for the school to monitor the overall health of the student population. These WERE NOT drug tests, they COULD be used as a baseline to help determine if a kid was using, and even then it wouldn't be a clear determinate. If they were drug testing without consent that's one thing, but taking their vitals is not a big deal. Classic over-reaction by a few parents confused by the facts. "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:39 PM:
" It is most unfortunate that I see some parents on here that are allowing the school to take liberties with their children. Shame on you!!! You are their parents. Do your job!! Protect your children and their rights. Why would you give someone else authoritiy to choose what is right for YOUR child? These are our children people! Doesn't it concern you that they didn't give you a choice? "
notme wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:31 PM:
" Chaz
wrote on Apr 16, 2008 12:57 PM:
----------------------
SO RIGHT! That is why we need LEO to admit they CAN'T DO THE JOB, and quit being opposed to CCW.
At the very least, STOP detaining those of us who are LEGALLY OPEN CARRYING "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:23 PM:
" THANK YOU HonestAbe... You are hitting the nail on the head. The point of the whole thing is that we were not notified. Proper procedures were not taken prior to starting. We have to sign a slip for them to take our kids to the library or park, but yet they don't need it to test/screen them?
"
mom123 wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:13 PM:
" Touché, CJ. "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:12 PM:
" Thank you Chaz "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:10 PM:
" So HonestAbe...are you a parent? I'm sure when you were a kid you didn't want your parents in your business. So stop critizing my mother and all the parents of Sparta. You don't know us. You only know what you want to know. You want to know the bad stuff and never the good stuff. I'm glad you're not my mothers child...I would be ashamed to have you as a child with a mouth like that.
"
Chaz wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:07 PM:
" If you were never informed, then it was wrong. Regardless their reasoning, it was wrong for them to make it seem like it was mandatory. "
SpartaKids wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:01 PM:
" We were never informed that it was optional. The nurse said that if they told us that it was optional that the kids wouldn't participate in the testing...DUH! "
Lana wrote on Apr 16, 2008 2:00 PM:
" I am really offended that because I feel my rights as a parent have been violated it means my children are on drugs. Honestly. Not all parents in Sparta are losers. Not all kids in Sparta are on drugs. The great thing about living in America is having the right of choice. All I ask is to be given the respect of allowing me to decide what is best for my children? Right or wrong.. It is still my choice.
If the school has a concern about my child I ask them to contact me. Communicate with me. Allow me to do my job as a parent. If they want parental cooperation, then the parent needs to be included. Not sideswiped with behind the scenes testing.
Irregardless of the type of testing. "
Chaz wrote on Apr 16, 2008 1:51 PM:
" If this was indeed optional to the students, and it was made clear...the parents can only be mad at their kid for submitting to it. It's human nature to protect your own, and I think most of the people upset by this either don't want to know if their kid is a user or don't want the possibility for their kid to be known as a user. I applaud the school district to be proactive instead of reactive. "
Sparta parent wrote on Apr 16, 2008 1:50 PM:
" Honest Abe;spoken from a person who truly believes you can be injured from a blood pressure cuff. You know nothing about me and I am certainly not a clueless sheep. I am an involved parent who loves and cares
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