ARTIFACT 1

Ms. Diya A. Blanchard July 12, 2019

Assignment 2 EA 7780

As a hearing officer, I would uphold the decision of the principal. When the appeal process

begins, I would outline the facts by reading statements provided during principal Krupp's

investigation. My emphasis would be on the student statement where Johnny admits making the

threats against the school. My next step would be to outline for the parents and highlight the

student code of conduct's policy on threats of violence. After I provided them with the facts I

would listen intently as they (the parents) explained to me why Johnny's suspension should be set

aside taking copious notes. I would not decide during the hearing. I would process, investigate

and render a decision letter in writing in a timely fashion. In all fairness, I would make sure the

Jokester family was aware of their right to counsel.

Factors that will influence my decision that I would not share with the parents are various.

Firstly, Johnny fits the profile of individuals that have committed these types of crimes in the

past. The burden is on the district to keep ALL the students safe and threats of violence

especially when the student has access to firearms cannot be taken lightly. Mr. Krupp has to set a

precedent that this behavior will not be tolerated to keep the delicate balance of peace, harmony,

and order at school. People will not thrive and be in attendance where they do not feel safe. The

dwindling attendance is evidence of this. If he makes good on his threats and the school knows

about this, it makes the district vulnerable to lawsuits. Lastly, the prior incident, when Johnny

lashed out at the Algebra teacher might be an indicator of pinned up anger. Furthermore, it shows

that he may have resentment towards authority.

The Michigan Legislature has given school districts the authority to discipline students including

the power to order suspension or expulsion MCL 380.1311. Courts have stated the power to
 ARTIFACT 1
maintain order & discipline in a school is subject only to the restriction of reasonableness. Goss

versus Lopez U.S. Supreme Court 1975 states that a student has a "Property Interest" in public

education. Due process is required before the right is taken away. Johnny has been given a notice

of the charges and this appeal is his opportunity to be heard. Mr. Krupp has dutifully followed

the appropriate protocols to ensure Johnny's rights have been considered.

When I rendered my decision, it would be in favor of the safety of everyone at Sutton High

School. I would protect them by removing the threat. My recommendation would be for Johnny

Jokester to be suspended for 45 days. The parents would be apprised of the fact that they could

request work from his teachers. My further recommendation would be to suggest that they

receive and submit Johnny's school work electronically. I would suggest it as an easy and

convenient way to keep Johnny in the loop with his studies. However, in all actuality, I would be

thinking of everyone's safety. This way they have no reason to come to the school should they

be angered by my final decision.

In closing, as a precaution, I would research to compare how the district has handled these types

of situations historically to ensure that my decision is in line with their practices.