SCHOOLS EASE ZERO-TOLERANCE DRUG POLICY

Students caught with misdemeanor amounts of marijuana at school are no
longer subject to expulsion, the Hillsborough School Board decided
Tuesday after learning 176 have been expelled for that offense this
school year.

In relaxing its new zero-tolerance policy, the board said it would
seek more options for first-time of fenders in various cases who might
be helped by a disciplinary program other than alternative education.

Effective with the board's vote, for example, students found guilty of
possessing less than 20 grams of marijuana will be suspended for 10
days, referred to the school district's out-of-school education
program for that time, and referred to juvenile drug court for
treatment and counseling.

Students who complete the program, which has been worked out with the
county court system, will be able to return to class, officials said.

"Wonderful," said board member Candy Olson, who joined colleagues in
seeking alternatives after hearing the update from the current
academic year.

In other action, the board approved on first reading an alternative to
building a high school in Lutz that remains in litigation.

Instead, the board plans additions to house 300 students at Gaither
High School, a 500-student elementary school and a 600-student
technical high school in the University of South Florida area, and
expansions or renovations at other schools.

A task force will be formed to make recommendations about the effects
of large schools on student achievement.

The board also approved these appointments, effective
today:

o Vernon Korhn, assistant director of athletics, as director of
athletics and extracurricular activities, replacing Wayne Williamson,
who retired.

o Sylvia McMillan, supervisor of subsidized child care early learning
programs, as principal of Alafia Elementary School. She replaces Tanly
Cabrera, now principal of the new Pride Elementary.

o Susan Turner, supervisor of management training, as principal of
Mintz Elementary. She replaces Beverly Carbaugh, who is principal of
the new Bevis Elementary.

o Willie Campbell, transportation support manager, as supervisor of
purchasing, replacing Bill Borrer, who resigned.