TWO MORE STUDENTS EXPELLED

The West Salem School District expelled its seventh and eighth
students of the year last week, all of which have been for
drug-related offenses.

So far for the 2007-08 school year, one out of every 66 students is
being expelled from the 529-member high school.

According to Superintendent Nancy Burns, the recent expulsions -- two
senior boys -- were for having drug paraphernalia on school grounds.
The school board held the expulsion hearings in closed session on
Feb. 5.

The eight expulsions are the highest known number the school district
has ever had.

Burns said the district will continue to enforce its policy that
prohibits students from possessing illegal substances on school
grounds. Overall, she said the district has seen support in
recommending an expulsion when a student is found to be in possession
of drug or drug paraphernalia.

"We're not getting any complaints," Burns said. "Everybody is
supportive. We want a drug-free school, the students want a drug-free
school, the staff wants it (and) the parents want it.

"The community is very supportive."

Burns noted that expulsions, particularly first-time offenses, have
options of re-applying to the school if certain conditions are met.