Parsons to check for alcohol at school dances

Students in a southeast Kansas district will soon be required to undergo alcohol breath tests before they’re allowed into school dances.

The Parsons Sun reports the tests will be administered to all students and their guests, even if they’re not suspected of drinking. Anyone refusing the test will be barred from the dance.

Parsons superintendent Shelly Martin said the district has received two handheld blood-alcohol breath wands that will be used at the high school. If an initial test registers alcohol on a student’s breath, law enforcement officers will administer a second test with a device used by the police department.

Martin said the district may extend the policy to other activities in the future.