Since we are going for the safe schools (apparently), let’s think of some other things that could be used as weapons and thus qualify for zero tolerance:
1) Pencils (If I sharpen them correctly)
2) Keys (stabbing people in the eye)
3) Scissors (God forbid that we try to cut things)
4) Forks and knives (eat with your hands)
5) The old polypropylene cafeteria trays that you could shatter into sharp pieces(polystyrene rocks!)
Eventually the list could grow to almost infinity. The lesson is that this was in his car (trunk), under lock and key, and most of all part of a survival kit that is designed to be used only in emergencies. What’s more is that he admitted to having this when asked because as a soldier and honorable person he believed in being an honest person. While I find it highly suspicious that the school would investigate his car although they had no true “reasonable suspiction” under New Jersey vs. TLO since all the people interviewed have said that this young man is an upstanding guy.
If this is what the public system is becoming, my child (one day when I have one; still in college right now) will go to a private school or get home schooled. At least then each case can be evaluated on its merits...
No more metal shop or home economics! (Torches, hot stoves, knives, drills, other sharp tools.)
bttt