In this particular instance the student is my son.

I am a strong believer in individual rights and the responsibility which comes with protection of those rights and personal freedoms. In this instance I believe the parents and the administration must take appropriate action to provide educatation on the dangers of tobacco use.

Personally, I do not agree with the one (1) day school suspension, as I am uncertain if missing school is in the best interest of any student. The remainder of the punishment I have no disagreement with. My son knew of the policy, and failed to abide by the rules. Fortunately the incident occurred this week and not next week, which would cause the athlete to be suspended for Regionals and therefor the opportunity to qualify for the state tournament.

I have other thoughts which I will add later.