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Westwood Board suspends student through Nov. 5 after finding weapon possession
Summary
The Westwood Community School District Board voted unanimously Sept. 4 to suspend a student through Nov. 5, 2025, after finding the student knowingly possessed a weapon on school grounds; reinstatement requires counseling, a threat assessment, IDEA evaluation and proof of ongoing support.
The Westwood Community School District Board of Education voted unanimously Sept. 4 to impose a long-term suspension on Student 2025-01 through Nov. 5, 2025, after finding the student violated Board Policy 5772 — Possession of a Weapon.
Superintendent Dr. Stiles Simmons recommended the suspension and told the board that, "based on the evidence presented, the Board finds that the student did knowingly possess a weapon on school grounds, constituting a breach of District policy." The board approved the recommendation on a 4-0 vote after returning from a closed session requested by the student’s mother.
The board specified conditions for reinstatement to be determined by the Superintendent or designee, including participation in counseling services, completion of a formal threat assessment, evaluation for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and proof of ongoing engagement with Starfish Family Services or an equivalent support provider. Dr. Simmons said arrangements would be made to provide educational services during the suspension.
The Mother of Student 2025-01 indicated she understood the long-term suspension; a letter notifying her of the board’s action will be sent by U.S. Mail. The board record shows President Timothy Emery, Vice President Angela Hopkins, Treasurer Roderick Means and Trustee Sarah Ward present; three trustees were listed absent.
