The Board of Education recognizes substance abuse, including alcoholism and drug abuse, as a treatable condition. When such condition impairs the performance of a support staff member, the Board recognizes a responsibility to assist in a manner recommended by appropriate specialists in the treatment of these conditions.

A staff member who suspects s/he may have an illness or health problem relating to substance abuse is encouraged to seek counseling and/or information by contracting resources available for such services on a confidential basis. If it becomes necessary for the administration to confront the staff member concerning such problem, this shall be done discreetly, with the same careful consideration and offer of assistance that is presently extended to staff members having any other health problem.

If a support staff member voluntarily requests counseling or assistance before the District learns of the support staff member's substance abuse problem (through a positive test result or otherwise), the support staff member's job security or promotion opportunities will not be jeopardized by his/her request for counseling or referral assistance. A support staff member may not avoid the consequences of a positive test by requesting counseling or assistance for a substance abuse problem after being instructed to submit to a drug test.

The responsibility to correct unsatisfactory job performance or behavior resulting from a suspected health problem rests with the staff member. Failure to do so shall result in corrective or disciplinary action as determined by the Board.

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. 794

Revised 6/14/93
Revised 12/11/03