Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, August 2, 1994 TAG: 9408020105
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B-3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: By JOEL TURNER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
On Friday, Stinnett is supposed to take the final exam in his 10th grade English class, which he had to retake in summer school because he failed it during the school year.
The problem is that Stinnett also is supposed to be in Orlando, Fla., on Friday for the opening ceremonies for Dixie Youth Baseball's World Series, for players 15 and 16 years old.
Stinnett, 15, plays for the Vinton Dixie Youth All-Stars, who recently won the state championship and the right to compete for the national championship.
When he enrolled in summer school, Stinnett said, he never thought his team would still be playing in August and fighting for the national title.
Stinnett and his family have asked school administrators to allow him to take the exam early and make up lost time by attending another summer school English class this week in addition to his regular class.
Stinnett is awaiting a decision today. His mother, Judith, said her son is going to the baseball tournament regardless of what school administrators decide.
``It's not a matter of whether he is going. He's going,'' his mother said.
James Gallion, assistant superintendent for Roanoke County schools, said students normally are not allowed to miss summer school classes except for serious illness or a death in a family.
He said summer school students are required to agree that they will attend all classes so they can meet the requirements to get credit for the course.
Adam Stinnett said he has offered to do anything to make up the time and take the exam so he can be in Florida on Friday.
``It's not right. I am willing to do whatever they want,'' said Stinnett, who has played several positions for the team.
Stinnett had planned to travel to Florida on Friday with his father, Wayne, and his mother. But his father had gall bladder surgery and may be unable to go.
His mother said Adam may have to travel with the coaches. The parents and coaches are looking into the possibility of flying to Florida if they can travel on reduced fares.
The Vinton team does not take the field until 3 p.m. Saturday, when it plays a team from Arkansas. But Judith Stinnett said the teams must be present Friday for the opening ceremonies.
by CNB