By Patrick Tepoorten

An investigation into the use, possession and sale of drugs within the North Branch School District has “largely” concluded,  according to Community Relations Coordinator Sara Thompson, and has revealed the problem was primarily a middle school issue.

The investigation, first reported on the Post Review Web site on March 5, has determined that seven middle school and two high school students were involved.

The district became aware of the possibility students were involved in the possession, use and sale of marijuana the afternoon of Feb. 27.

In a letter to parents dated March 4, Superintendent Deb Henton called the situation an “unusual circumstance” for the district and added, “We take these activities very seriously.” Also in the letter, Henton expressed her desire to have notified parents of the situation earlier, but “the investigation was ongoing and facts were still being uncovered...”

According to Thompson, the district is currently determining the appropriate level of discipline for each of the involved students, and those students “will be disciplined for possession, use, and distribution of illegal drugs on school grounds.”

According to district policy 506, the punishment for such activities can range from a parent conference to expulsion.

It is not expected the district will have disciplinary action completed in time for the next meeting of the school board, scheduled for March 14.

The investigation was conducted in conjunction with the North Branch Police Department.

Here is a previous story on the North Branch drug investigation . 

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