LENOIR HIGH SCHOOL GRADS PROTESTING

PINK HILL -- More than 60 South Lenoir High School seniors have signed a
petition to allow a fellow student who was expelled from school to
participate in their graduation ceremony.

Nicholas Russell, 18, was suspended from school Jan. 11 after Lenoir County
Sheriff's deputies found a small bag of marijuana in his car, parked at
South Lenoir. He was later expelled.

Russell was charged with possession of marijuana, a misdemeanor, but never
jailed.

South Lenoir Principal Bobby Davis said he's doing what he feels is right
by not letting Russell take part in the ceremony.

"When a situation comes up, you have to make a judgment," Davis said. "I'm
doing what I think will benefit those students here now and in the future."

Lenoir County Assistant Superintendent Gerald Roberson said when a student
violates board policy, it is up to Superintendent Curtis Rains to determine
the length of suspension.

Roberson said after the suspension is set, the rest is up to the student's
principal.

Because Russell only needed one class to graduate, Rains allowed him to
take it at Kinston High School.

Russell said he is happy he will receive a diploma, but feels he should be
allowed to participate in the ceremony.

"I have never been in trouble before," Russell said. "All through high
school I was considered academically gifted."