Lacey Township board declines recommended long-term suspension, allows student to participate in graduation

The Lacey Township Board of Education voted unanimously to decline the administration's recommendation that student ID 7299511307 receive a long-term suspension, and authorized the student to participate in the remainder of school activities, including the high school graduation ceremony.

According to the resolution read aloud by the board, a long-term suspension hearing was held on June 17, 2026, during which both the administration and the student’s representatives were given an opportunity to present information. The board "finds that the administration's recommendation was made in accordance with applicable law, board policy, and due process requirements, but that a long-term suspension was not warranted." The board directed the superintendent or his designee to take the necessary steps to implement the resolution.

Board members recorded their votes on a roll call following a motion and second. The recorded votes were: Mrs. Opitz — yes; Mr. Hurley — yes; Dr. Forney — yes; Mr. Amato — yes; Mr. Bell — yes; Mr. Gowen — yes; Mrs. Claus — yes. The motion passed 7–0.

The resolution permits the student to participate in end-of-year activities, including graduation. The administration did not publicly dispute the board's factual findings during the open meeting; the motion itself notes the board reviewed testimony and evidence presented at the in‑camera hearing.