A previously paused policy is back in Botetourt—here’s what it means for students signing up for extracurriculars and parking permits.
Following a four-year hiatus, the Botetourt County Public Schools (BCPS) division recently reinstated random student drug testing.
The BCPS Random Drug Testing Policy applies to students:
- In grades 6-12
- Requesting a parking permit
- Participating in school-sponsored extracurricular activities
According to the policy on BoardDocs, random drug tests will take place a minimum of two times in the fall, winter, and spring seasons. Tests can occur any time during a student’s participatory extracurricular season, including any post-season events.
The sample size for the random drug tests will include 10% of the student population that falls under the guidelines. Participation in school-sponsored extracurricular activities—as well as applying for parking permits—is on a voluntary basis.
Samples will be analyzed for alcohol, tobacco, nicotine, controlled substances, and performance-enhancing substances.
First positive test consequences include:
- 14-day removal from all competitions
- 14-day loss of parking privilege
- Mandatory participation in the Student Assistance and Prevention Program
Second positive test consequences include:
- 60-day suspension from all tryouts, practices, games
- 60-day loss of parking privilege
- Loss of leadership roles
- Mandatory participation in a therapeutic program
Third positive test consequences include:
- 365-day suspension for all school-sponsored extracurricular activities
- Loss of parking privilege
Students on prescriptions may show proof if a false positive occurs.
“This initiative is part of a broader effort to maintain a learning environment free from illegal drugs, alcohol, and performance-enhancing substances,” according to the introduction found in Botetourt County Public Schools Random Drug Testing Policy dated June 2025.
