Students facing suspension and/or expulsion from Jones County schools came before a disciplinary hearing last week.
Parents and students were informed about the pending action by school officials March 12, and the hearings, also known as tribunals, were held March 26, which is within the 10 days required.
The identity of the students cannot be revealed by the school system, but it believed that at least 10 hearings were held March 26, beginning at noon and not ending until 9:30 p.m.
The law states before a child is suspended or expelled for over 10 days, the school must hold a disciplinary hearing. The school system must provide the child’s legal guardian written notice that must explain how the child broke the school’s discipline code and the date and time of the tribunal.
It appears all that took place in a timely manner.
The identity of some of the students were revealed to broadcast media by their parents after the hearings adjourned last week, but the names of those students will not be repeated here.
Evidence in the hearings was presented by school officials and law enforcement officers, and a decision was made at the conclusion of each case.
If parents do not agree with the decision, they have 20 days to appeal to the Jones County Board of Education. Board members will listen to the proceedings and can agree with the decision or overturn it.
If parents still do not agree, they have the option to appeal to the State Board of Education and then to the courts.
Code of conduct
It is apparent the reason for the tribunals was related to the possibility of gang affiliations. The Jones County School System code of conduct for students is available in the student handbook and on the Board of Education Simbli page that can be reached through the website, jones.k12.ga.us.
Under gang-related activity, the policy states that the school system has a zero tolerance for gang affiliation and/or activities. Gangs are defined as clubs, groups or organizations of limited membership, which advocate, engage or participate in unlawful acts.
“Wearing any insignia, uniforms, any means of gang identification and/or making or using any signs, signals, or other means of gang communication or identification by any student or non-student visiting on the premises of any school facility shall not be permitted.”
The policy goes on to say, “Any student who violates this policy shall be subject to discipline, which may include suspension and/or expulsion from school.”
Superintendent response
JCSS Superintendent Dr. Jessica Graves responded to questions about the tribunal by email.
“While I am unable to comment on any disciplinary outcomes for our district, given Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act restrictions, I want to reiterate that safety is and will remain our top priority,” she stated. “We will do everything in our power to ensure a positive, safe, and secure learning environment for all students while protecting the due process rights of all students. Our standard is nothing short of excellence, and this community can count on a commitment to excellence in every area.”
