imported post
Here's another story to keep our eye on. The funny thing is... if there does happen to be another Columbine or VT-type crime some day, which kid do you want to have in school, the one who left his rifle at home, or the one who has it locked up in the back of his truck outside?
TFred
http://www.fredericksburg.com/News/FLS/2009/112009/11012009/504702
Rifle on campus leads to discipline
November 1, 2009 12:36 am
BY ROBIN KNEPPER
An Orange County High School student has been suspended after admitting he parked on school grounds with a .22-caliber hunting rifle in the back of his truck.
On Thursday, Principal Gene Kotulka alerted parents that a .22-caliber shell casing was found by a teacher in a classroom.
Several students sitting in the area were questioned, and one admitted that he had been hunting and had left his rifle in his truck.
The student was very upfront and apologetic about it, according to Superintendent Bob Grimesey, but he was suspended pending the outcome of a hearing process.
According to Grimesey, School Board policy makes it clear that students must not bring any firearms to school property and states that the sanction for such action is "expulsion for at least one year."
He adds, however, that policy also allows the School Board to "exercise discretion in rendering all final decisions relative to long-term suspensions and expulsions."
Once a school administration completes its investigation and renders a final decision, the case is re-examined by a discipline hearing officer. The school administration presents its facts and its recommendation, and the student and his parents are allowed to respond.
The hearing officer may reject, modify or confirm the school administration's recommendation. If the recommendation for expulsion still stands following the hearing officer's review, the case is heard before the School Board.
"Only the School Board maintains the authority in a firearms case to issue disciplinary action other than expulsion," Grimesey wrote in response to an inquiry.
"I am confident that the members of our School Board do not tolerate weapons on school grounds," he continued. "At the same time, they are very intelligent people who understand the need to evaluate all facts associated with disciplinary matters.
"As of Friday this case has not yet been referred to the discipline hearing officer so it is premature for me to pre-suppose any timetable or outcome," he wrote.
The suspended student will be allowed to keep up with his assignments in the same way any other students may keep up with their work during extended absences.
Robin Knepper: 540/972-5701
Email:
rknepper@earthlink.net