This determination was based on the information produced at the hearing and John A.'s anecdotal record. This appeal was commenced on March 18. On March 24, respondent heard arguments on John A.'s appeal. By a letter dated March 26, respondent's president advised John A.'s parents that respondent had affirmed the superintendent's determination in all respects. On April 2, I denied petitioner's stay request, which sought to have her son returned to school immediately.
Petitioner challenges the penalty as excessive under the circumstances.
Petitioner also claims that during the early part of the suspension, respondent failed to provide alternative instruction. Respondent disputes petitioner's claims as to excessiveness, and alleges that the penalty was appropriate for the seriousness of the offense. Respondent admits some difficulty in providing alternative instruction at the beginning of the suspension, but claims that those difficulties have been resolved and that John A. did receive proper instruction. The possession of a weapon such as a knife by a student in a school is a very serious matter, and must be sanctioned accordingly. In prior decisions, the Commissioner of Education has considered appropriate penalties to be imposed in cases based upon possession of a knife or other similar weapon.