School Committee Looks at Pot Law

Supt. Belson: New Pot Law Should Not Impact School Policy

– Allison Goldsberry

After Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly voted to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana, both law enforcement officials and school administrators have grappled with how to enforce the new law.

Under a new law approved by voters, possession of one ounce or less of marijuana is no longer a criminal offense, and a new system of civil penalties is being put into place.

School Superintendent Roy Belson said he has consulted with the district’s own legal counsel as well as legal opinions from the Secretary of State and other sources. Superintendent Belson said the new law does not affect the discretion of school administrators in determining the appropriate punishment for students possessing small amounts of marijuana on school property.

Superintendent Belson cited an opinion released by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education that in part states:

“In our opinion, Question 2 does not affect the existing authority of school officials under state law and school committee policy to impose discipline, including suspension or expulsion, on students who possess one ounce or less of marijuana on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events.”

School Committee member Lena DiGiantommaso favors keeping the district’s current drug policy in place.

“I would hate to see this change…that’s not right if we don’t discipline the youngsters if they do something of this caliber,” said DiGiantommaso.

Superintendent Belson cautioned that a court has yet to rule on the matter, but for the time being, the district will maintain its current drug policy.

The current policy focuses on prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation, according to the document.  It also notes that school grounds extends up to 1,000 feet beyond a school’s boundaries and includes all school-sponsored events, regardless of their location.  The school also reserves the right conduct periodic inspections of all school property, including lockers and desks.

According to the policy, no student is allowed to possess, sell, distribute, purchase, or be under the influence of drugs or alcohol on school grounds.  Violators will be suspended and reported to the Medford Police.