Pubdate: Wed, 09 Apr 2003 Source: Hub, The (CN NT) Copyright: 2003 The Hub Contact: http://www.hayriverhub.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2349 Author: Pieta Goudron DRUGGIES FACE 10-DAY SUSPENSIONS Schools: Drug Policy Considered By DEA High school drug users and sellers may get even harsher consequences than those proposed last month by DISS principal Greg Storey. At a meeting of the Hay River District Education Authority Wednesday night, members debated whether a student should get a five-day or a ten-day suspension the first time he or she is caught with drugs. Currently, the proposed policy supports a five-day suspension. "What if that first offence includes dealing?" asked DISS principal Greg Storey. "Is it more serious? If we change [the proposed policy's first offence consequences] to 10 days of suspension, we have more discretion." Member Dave MacDonald pointed out that he would like to see more consequences for dealers in the school. He suggested expulsion for the rest of the school year, if a student is caught dealing drugs. But member April Glaicar wasn't sold on the idea that the school can punish students without first proving beyond a doubt they are using or pushing drugs. "Is it really our school's place to determine whether a student is dealing? Are they just guilty if we say they're guilty? Are we not leaving ourselves open to a legal nightmare?" she asked. The policy passed through first reading last month. It must pass three readings before it is officially endorsed by the DEA. Members will likely vote on the policy's second reading at the next DEA meeting, April 16. - --- MAP posted-by: Alex