TWO EXPELLED OVER MARIJUANA

HINTON - The Summers County school board expelled two Summers County High
School male sophomores Thursday for possessing and smoking marijuana on
campus. Members convened a 15-minute executive session with SCHS principal
Harry Keaton to discuss the infraction.

The students are expelled for 365 days and will be allowed to attend the
alternative school. Superintendent Richie Rodes said conditions of their
return to class will include drug tests and counseling.

Rodes announced some initiatives school personnel will take to combat the
county's drug abuse problem. Brochures listing symptoms of drug abuse are
being distributed to all students and parents. A public meeting is planned
Dec. 6 at Hinton Area Elementary to teach parents how to identify the signs
of abuse.

He added he wants the board to consider adopting a policy to require random
drug testing for athletes. "I think it's something we need to take a look at."

The item will be placed on the agenda for the next regular meeting Dec. 13.

Business manager Joe Kessler said the school system and contractor for the
recent renovations at Summers Middle School agreed to a Nov. 30 deadline
for repairs to begin on the gymnasium floor, which was damaged during
construction. If someone is not on site by that date, the board will repair
the floor and sue the contractor for damages.