School dance to use breathalyzer test

ST. JOHN, Ind. (AP) - Students attending Lake Central High School's winter dance will have to do more than present their tickets at the front door: They'll also be asked to submit to a Breathalyzer test.

The district's school board implemented the new testing policy last month following an uproar over last spring's prom, during which two dozen seniors showed up drunk and were expelled.

Superintendent Gerald Chabot says officials at the school in Lake County regret taking the new measures, but that they are needed to ensure a safe environment at extracurricular activities. The new rules will begin with the winter dance on Jan. 31.

Aside from Breathalyzers, the district will also search students' pockets and bags before entrance and boost supervision to include 40 parent chaperones and 20 teachers and administrators.