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
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MAP posted-by: Beth