Waukegan board debates handbook language for look‑alike firearms, other prohibited items

Waukegan CUSD 60 board members and staff on Monday discussed proposed changes to the student handbook that would refine how the district treats look‑alike firearms and other prohibited items, including whether some incidents should be referred to the board and how to classify items that are not actual weapons.

The discussion focused on three linked points: defining what counts as a look‑alike firearm, distinguishing look‑alike items from actual weapons such as box cutters or razor blades, and whether incidents that cause emotional harm should trigger a mandatory board referral. Staff said they will draft proposals and bring them back for further review with the district’s P‑TECH advisory group.

Board member Riddle asked staff where the board’s notice requirement would be added, saying he wanted incidents involving look‑alikes to “come to the board” so trustees could “have our eyes on it” without an intent to expel. Staff member Van de Broek explained why a reference had been recommended for removal in one draft: “So the reason…