Judge blocks expulsion of BVA students

By Rich Cholodofsky

A Westmoreland County judge Tuesday halted the expulsion of eight Belle Vernon Area High School students cited this month for underage drinking at a charity event.
The preliminary injunction granted by Common Pleas Court Judge Harry Smail Jr. means the students will be allowed to return to school next week and attend district-sanctioned events, including Friday’s prom.
The students filed a lawsuit against the school district, claiming administrators violated disciplinary procedures that resulted in the issuing of 45-day expulsions. They asked the judge to halt the expulsions and order the district to conduct new disciplinary hearings.
Smail granted the request, saying in his three-page ruling that school officials did not properly notify the juveniles and their parents about the expulsion hearings.

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