[j_tull]

However, it seems like all he had to do was explain what happened, in writing, and apologize. Hardly draconian.

Did you miss this part? :...coerced into writing false statements stating they made bad choices by not telling an adult,..."

Sorry, deciding not to be a narc is NOT a bad choice, at least an enforcable one.

[Behind Liberal Lines]

I guess I'd better check my URL. I seem to have logged onto an ACLU forum by accident.

A "false statement" would be along the lines of saying falsely that he had carried or possessed the pocket knife.

Having to write he made a "bad choice" seems like an apology.