School Board Expels Student Over Threat to Safety

In a recent meeting of the Milan Area School District Board of Education, a significant decision was made regarding the expulsion of a student identified as 2425-1. The board convened in a closed session on October 9, 2024, to conduct a disciplinary hearing following a request from the student's parents. The hearing was held in accordance with Section 8.1 B of the Michigan Open Meetings Act, allowing the board to consider the student's case privately.

The administration recommended expulsion due to a threat made by the student against a school building and individual students. After reviewing evidence and hearing from the student and their representatives, the board determined that the expulsion was warranted based on several factors, including the seriousness of the behavior and the potential safety risks involved.

The board's resolution states that the student will be expelled for the remainder of the 2024-2025 school year, with the possibility of applying for reinstatement no earlier than July 1, 2025. Conditions for reinstatement include demonstrating that the student has not engaged in detrimental conduct during the expulsion period and has participated in an educational program.

Additionally, the student must agree to a reentry safety plan, which includes provisions for searches of their possessions and participation in a restorative practice exercise aimed at repairing harm caused by their actions. The board emphasized that failure to meet these conditions could result in the continuation of the expulsion.

The decision reflects the board's commitment to maintaining a safe educational environment while also providing pathways for student rehabilitation and reintegration. The board authorized administrators to implement the terms of the resolution, underscoring the seriousness with which they approach student discipline and safety.