Fifth Grader Faces Expulsion For Bringing Marijuana To School To Keep Dad From Smoking It
Though his
intentions may have been innocent, a Virginia fifth grader who brought marijuana
to school could face expulsion for his actions, according to media reports.
Local police officers responded to a report of a student in possession of
marijuana Tuesday.
According to Suffolk police, the Driver Elementary student showed his teacher
the drug and said he took it from his father so that he would stop smoking.
In an email to the Suffolk News-Herald, city spokeswoman Diana Klink said:
“When asked about the marijuana in the presence of the student’s mother, he
advised the officer that he found it in his father’s truck and brought it to
school to show his teacher because he wanted his father to stop smoking
marijuana.”
However, under Suffolk Public Schools’ student code of conduct and school
board policy, students are restricted from having marijuana in their possession
on school grounds, regardless of the reason. Though the school is entitled to
impose its own disciplinary actions, the principal is also required to report
any conduct involving marijuana to local law enforcement, as required under the
Code of Virginia.
“Policy is policy, but I do think they need to check into the situation
more,” Jonathan Lewis, a former teacher, told WTKR. While the student has since
been suspended, NBC affiliate WAVY reports that district spokeswoman Bethanne
Bradshaw confirmed the student has been recommended for expulsion. The hearing
is expected to be scheduled within the next 10 days.
DAILYMAIL