Dr. William Miller, superintendent of the Tyrone Area School District, today said the district may have to re-examine its discipline policy.
In March, an 18-year-old student was found to be in possession of a small amount of heroin and drug paraphernalia. Being his first offense, and according to district policy, the student was suspended for 10 days.
But now, some parents are wondering why the student is back and attending classes at Tyrone Area High School.
“He has the right to return to school according to the policy,” said Miller.
Miller said the incident has raised some questions concerning the policy and the issue will be discussed amongst school board members in the near future.
“We’re looking into making stricter policies,” said Miller.
According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Tyrone School District Police Chief Mark Frailey, Sam David Kirk, a search of Sam David Kirk’s person on March 3 revealed a small bag containing a white substance. Subsequently, the substance was analyzed by the state police crime lab and determined to be heroin, a Schedule I narcotic. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and a violation of the public school code, possession of a cellular telephone during school hours.
Kirk was released on $15,000 unsecured bail and a preliminary hearing in the matter is scheduled for April 29 at the District Magistrate office of Fred Miller. The 18-year-old defendant is represented by Phillip Robertson, an attorney from Altoona.
