Pubdate: Thu, 29 Nov 2001 Source: Montreal Gazette (CN QU) Copyright: 2001 The Gazette, a division of Southam Inc. Contact: http://www.canada.com/montreal/montrealgazette/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/274 Author: Jamie Lee Harrison-Kaldi Reference: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v01/n1993/a03.html?1446 TOO HARSH In response to your Nov. 27 article "Student faces expulsion for $5 worth of pot," I feel that the way the school board is punishing "Jimmy" is a bit too harsh, seeing as this is his first offence. I understand that the school board has zero tolerance for drug possession, but maybe a few days' suspension would be more appropriate. I'm all for people paying for their mistakes, but Jimmy is being made to pay heavily for making a small one. I think that a few days' suspension would make Jimmy realize the severity of his actions and allow him to still complete his final high-school year. I feel the school is using Jimmy as an example to other students without regard for his future. I'm a high-school student in my last year, and I know how important it is to have continuity with regard to one's teachers and courses. To change in the middle of the year can be detrimental to the student. I think Jimmy deserves another chance. Jamie Lee Harrison-Kaldi Dorval - --- MAP posted-by: Beth