Descriptor Code: FFD
Carrying Weapons
Definitions
This policy defines the following:
- • Dangerous weapon as defined by NDCC 62.1-01-01(1)
- • Firearm as defined in accordance with 18 U.S.C. 921 and NDCC 62.1-01-01 (3).
- • School property is defined in NDCC 15.1-19-10 (6)(b) as all land within the perimeter of the school site and all school buildings, structures, facilities, and school vehicles, whether owned or leased by the District, and the site of any school-sponsored event or activity.
Prohibitions
Students knowingly possessing, or transmitting on school property a firearm, dangerous weapon, or any object that is used, attempted to be used, or threatened to be used to intimidate or cause bodily harm.
Disciplinary Consequences
Violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion. Bringing a dangerous weapon, other than a firearm, to school will require that proceedings for up to 10 days suspension and/or expulsion for up to 12 months be initiated immediately in accordance with the district’s suspension and expulsion policy.
Bringing a firearm to school will require that the District immediately initiate proceedings for the expulsion of the student involved for a minimum of one calendar year in accordance with the district’s suspension and expulsion policy. The Superintendent may modify the length of a firearms-related expulsion to less than one calendar year on a case-by-case basis based on the following criteria:
- 1. The totality of the circumstances, including the severity of the incident and the degree of endangerment of other students and staff.
- 2. The age and grade level of the student.
- 3. The prior disciplinary history of the student being expelled.
- 4. Relevant factors that contributed to the student’s decision to possess a firearm in violation of this policy.
- 5. The recency and severity of prior acts resulting in suspension or expulsion.
- 6. Whether or not the optional provision of educational services in an alternative setting is a viable alternative to modifying the duration of the expulsion.
- 7. Input, if any, provided by licensed professionals (psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors) as to whether or not the expelled student would place himself/herself or others at risk by returning to the school prior to the expiration of the expulsion period.
Parents will be notified and all dangerous weapons will be confiscated and may be turned over to the student’s parents or to law enforcement officials at the discretion of the administration. Firearms will be confiscated and turned over to law enforcement.