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Prince George board agrees to administrative handling of many long-term discipline cases for grades 6–12
Summary
After reviewing a proposed progressive-discipline matrix for grades 6–12, the board consented to allow an Administrative Discipline Committee to handle many first-offense long-term suspension cases (with appeals available to the superintendent and board). The motion to implement the practice passed by roll call.
The Prince George County School Board voted to consent to administrative staff implementing a progressive-discipline practice for students recommended for long-term suspension and expulsion in grades 6–12.
Dr. Martin and central-office staff presented a matrix that would funnel many first-offense cases — including THC vapes and certain drug incidents not involving intent to distribute — to an Administrative Discipline Committee composed of central-office staff, an attendance officer and a school administrator. "Our recommendation is to put an additional layer between the decisions that are being made at that level and the school board so that we can have some more room for appeals and more room for additional action," Dr. Martin said, explaining the goal of reducing late-night hearings and providing due process at the administrative level. (Dr. Martin)
Staff emphasized that the most severe offenses (level-5 incidents such as bringing a weapon to school or severe assaults) would continue to be heard by the board. Members asked how appeals and record keeping would work; staff said decisions by the administrative committee would be logged and parents could appeal to the superintendent and then to the full board.
A board member moved to place the progressive-discipline item as an action item and, after discussion, the board voted to implement the practice for students recommended for long-term suspension and expulsion as presented. The roll-call votes recorded support from all members present.
The board directed staff to proceed while preserving appeal rights and to provide the board with continued reporting on cases handled administratively.
