STUDENT DRUG USE PROMPTS MEETING

A large crowd of parents and pupils is expected tonight at the St.
Thomas school where 14 pupils were suspended earlier this month after
returning to classes stoned on marijuana following their lunch break.

Those attending the 7 p.m. meeting at Homedale senior elementary
school will hear an anti-drug message delivered by a panel composed of
St. Thomas police, a drug expert and school officials.

No charges were laid against the 14 pupils involved but police and
school officials wanted some kind of followup to the incident, said
Const. Glenn Hodgson of St. Thomas police.

"We are not trying to centre out the kids and parents directly
involved so we thought we'd open it up to others. We've been kind of
astounded that there have been 100 people who sent back a letter
saying they are coming. It's quite a good response from the school."

Homedale, a senior elementary school with grades 7 and 8, has 412
pupils.

Hodgson said those attending the meeting will hear a message on the
danger of drugs.

They'll also be learn about the potential legal consequences of
smoking pot, he said.

The hope is that pupils who know the consequences will steer clear of
illicit drugs in the future, said Hodgson.

The marijuana incident came to light when teachers noticed several
pupils acting oddly after returning from lunch.

An investigation showed a group of pupils went to a home where they
shared three marijuana joints during their lunch hour.