As a former drug abuse counselor, I was appalled by the statement made by a school administrator that it's the teachers who have to shape up in to quell violent behavior by students ("School behavior policies shifting," Feb. 20). Better have the student take a drug test.

Where there is harm to people or property, there usually is drug use. Alcohol is a drug. It changes people, intensifies their emotions, so if people start out angry, they will be angrier later on. If the student is the victim, or observes violence in the home or neighborhood, it is more likely that that behavior will be copied.

And what is a "soft" offense? Regarding the pill found in a boy's locker: Did anyone take it to a pharmacist to be identified? And why would someone keep a pill in his locker, anyway?

It's important that we not maximize nor minimize a behavior. Counseling for the family would be appropriate, also.

The bottom line should be: Is this student hurting others or himself? If so, then it would be appropriate to suspend him for a week, and make drug testing and counseling mandatory.

Lynne Selznick