Pubdate: Wed, 22 Mar 2000 Source: Tampa Tribune (FL) Copyright: 2000, The Tribune Co. Section: Florida Metro page 3 Contact: P.O. Box 191, Tampa, FL 33601 Website: http://www.tampatrib.com/ Forum: http://tampabayonline.net/interact/welcome.htm Author: Marilyn Brown of the Tribune SCHOOLS EASE ZERO-TOLERANCE DRUG POLICY Students caught with misdemeanor amounts of marijuana at school are no longer subject to expulsion, the Hillsborough School Board decided Tuesday after learning 176 have been expelled for that offense this school year. In relaxing its new zero-tolerance policy, the board said it would seek more options for first-time of fenders in various cases who might be helped by a disciplinary program other than alternative education. Effective with the board's vote, for example, students found guilty of possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana will be suspended for 10 days, referred to the school district's out-of-school education program for that time, and referred to juvenile drug court for treatment and counseling. Students who complete the program, which has been worked out with the county court system, will be able to return to class, officials said. "Wonderful," said board member Candy Olson, who joined colleagues in seeking alternatives after hearing the update from the current academic year. In other action, the board approved on first reading an alternative to building a high school in Lutz that remains in litigation. Instead, the board plans additions to house 300 students at Gaither High School, a 500-student elementary school and a 600-student technical high school in the University of South Florida area, and expansions or renovations at other schools. A task force will be formed to make recommendations about the effects of large schools on student achievement. The board also approved these appointments, effective today: o Vernon Korhn, assistant director of athletics, as director of athletics and extracurricular activities, replacing Wayne Williamson, who retired. o Sylvia McMillan, supervisor of subsidized child care early learning programs, as principal of Alafia Elementary School. She replaces Tanly Cabrera, now principal of the new Pride Elementary. o Susan Turner, supervisor of management training, as principal of Mintz Elementary. She replaces Beverly Carbaugh, who is principal of the new Bevis Elementary. o Willie Campbell, transportation support manager, as supervisor of purchasing, replacing Bill Borrer, who resigned. - --- MAP posted-by: Allan Wilkinson