Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, April 22, 1994 TAG: 9404220211
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B-1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: By JOEL TURNER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
Some students claim they had no malice or intent to hurt others, but the board still has to make it clear that weapons and drugs will not be tolerated, Curtis said.
Serving on the board has been especially difficult in recent weeks because four students have been expelled - two for bringing guns to school and two for having knives.
Despite the burden of expulsion votes, Curtis told City Council on Thursday night that she wants another three-year term. She has been on the board six years.
Four other applicants for three board seats said they also want to serve, even though they may face tough choices in discipline cases.
Board member Wendy O'Neil said she supports strong disciplinary action in cases involving drugs and weapons. O'Neil, who is seeking a second term, said the problem of weapons and violence in Roanoke's schools is small compared to other urban systems.
O'Neil said she wants to stay on the board to continue the programs that have been started during her first term. "The work is too important to leave,'' she said.
John Saunders said he supports Superintendent Wayne Harris' efforts to clarify the city's discipline policy and make it clear that weapons will not be allowed at schools.
Saunders, a business executive, said he would support programs to get parents more involved in discipline.
But he said guns and weapons are not a major problem in city schools.
Another applicant, Marsha Ellison, said she would encourage school officials to contact the parents of children who are bringing weapons to school. "I would encourage personal contacts to get the parents to become involved," said Ellison, a parent-teacher association leader.
James Beatty, the fifth applicant, said parents must take responsibility for their children's behavior. "I'm old-fashioned, and I think discipline is important,'' Beatty said.
Council interviewed the applicants on a variety of issues - from teen-age pregnancy to sports. Council will make the appointments next month.
All applicants said they believe the city's schools are excellent, despite the concerns about weapons.
The strongest support for the schools came from Saunders, who is seeking a seat for the first time.
Saunders said he is tired of the perception by some people that Roanoke's schools are inferior to other localities.
"We need to correct the misconception that Roanoke does not have excellent schools,'' Saunders said. "I am impressed with the programs we have, particularly in technology.''
Ellison, president of the Central Council PTA, said she supports Harris' proposal for acquiring the latest in educational technology at an estimated cost of $7.5 million over five years.
If appointed, Ellison said, she would bring the perspective of a parent to the board. She has two children in school. When James Turner leaves the board in June, Ellison said, there will be no member with children in city schools.
Turner is ineligible for reappointment because he has served three terms. Saunders also has children in city schools.
Beatty, city personnel administrator, said he believes the school system needs to better prepare those students who are not going to college.
by CNB