[momoftwo]

Just to clarify...the school suspended the student for violating school rules. Here's the language from the GBS student handbook, I'd assume that the GBN language is similar, if not identical (the taxpayers wouldn't want to pay two lawyers to write the same thing):

The school administration is authorized to suspend and/or recommend expulsion in cases of gross disobedience or misconduct that occur on or off campus, including such conduct that occurs on school buses, at bus stops, and while students are traveling to or from school or school bus stops; at school sponsored events and activities connected with the school program; and at any other time such action is necessary for the safety and supervision of students.

Misconduct includes, but is not limited to the following:

1. Violation of public law, such as theft, arson, assault and battery, destruction of property, gambling and hazing.

I think it is also important to realize that these kids will be able to complete their education and receive their GBN diplomas--but not the privilege of spending their last days in high school participating in all the traditions. This punishment won't ruin their lives. The kids who get charged--that's another story but they don't appear to have been on a good path anyway.

The school had to take action because this particular tradition has to stop. If last year's powder puff got rough, and the rough ones from that group showed up at this one...then next year this year's Seniors joined last year's Seniors, even worse things could happen.

I think the reason I'm so upset by this is because my sister died while she was in high school--of natural causes, but very suddenly. I am so aware of how fragile life really can be, even though my teen-age daughter thinks she's immortal. I've been a lurker on these boards trying to get comfortable with her interest in joining a sorority--the reaction to this event here makes me feel she won't be any less safe in college than she was in high school!