Toronto High School Implements Compulsory Breathalyzer Test Before Entering Prom In a story released yesterday by CTV News, Toronto’s Malvern Collegiate Institute has instituted a mandatory breathalyzer test for every student in order to gain entry into their prom this evening.  If any alcohol whatsoever is detected, those students will not be allowed inside. 

Many years ago now, in an effort to ensure the safety of the school, students and staff, concerned parents decided to purchase the breathalyzers for the school to use.  Ever since then the high school has been administering breath tests to the students for all school-related functions, dances and ceremonies. 

Surprisingly, the staff at Malvern Collegiate Institute has not heard a single complaint from the student body in regards to the mandatory testing.  Principal Line Pinard suggests that this is because the school has demonstrated a clear expectation in regards to understanding and respecting the repercussions associated with drinking before a student-sanctioned event. If any of them drink, they are simply unable to participate in the event.  This expectation is now widely accepted by the student body. 

Surely, in most schools of thought, this is a great idea.  It reduces the likelihood of alcohol-related accidents, drunk driving and school liabilities.  And above all – it facilitates sobriety, helping the students to actually remember one of the most memorable moments of their youth.

But, we’re always interested to know what our readers think.  Please comment below and share your opinions on this recent news story.  Is it fair that the students at Malvern Collegiate Institute have no choice but to consent to an involuntary breath test to gain entry to their prom?  Or is it a good move?  Is Malvern Collegiate Institute leading by example? Perhaps this should be regarded as a positive first step towards what could quite possibly be a large-scale initiative as Malvern Collegiate Institute gradually inspires many more Canadian high schools to follow suit.  Let us know, comment below!