Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, April 25, 1995                   TAG: 9504250099
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-6   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: NEW RIVER VALLEY BUREAU
DATELINE: PULASKI                                 LENGTH: Medium

GUN FOUND IN PUPIL'S BAG LEADS TO SUSPENSION

The 9-year-old pupil had left the bag on a Pulaski County school bus last week. It was turned over to the bus driver, who found the small firearm while looking for identification. The driver turned the gun in to a school administrator.

Suspension is automatic under county School Board policy whenever a weapon is found in a pupil's possession, even if the weapon contains no ammunition. There was also no ammunition in the book bag.

The suspension will remain in effect until a private disciplinary hearing can be scheduled at the School Board office to determine the facts in the case. The administrative staff held a preliminary hearing Monday and will recommend long-term suspension when the School Board meets next on May 11.

The student apparently had brought the pistol from home. Karen Clymer, the school system's coordinator of pupil personnel services, said parents need to take responsibility in teaching their children about the hazards of firearms and making sure children do not have access to firearms, loaded or not.

Clymer said there have been no incidents until now for a decade or more involving a Pulaski County pupil bringing any kind of firearm to school. She said it may provide an opportunity for an educational program in elementary schools about the dangers of firearms.

The Pulaski County Sheriff's Office got a report of the incident and has made its own investigation. Possession of a firearm on school property is a misdemeanor. After July, when legislation passed by the last General Assembly becomes effective, it will be a felony.