Controversial school policy involves police

DEDHAM, Mass. (WHDH) -- Dedham police and school officials are teaming up to keep the community drug and alcohol free, but the new school policy is proving controversial.

The policy insists the Dedham police juvenile officer report certain incidents to the principal. Such cases include, possession or use or sale of alcohol or drugs, hazing, making threats, theft, sexual assault, and hate crimes. For example, if a student is caught underage drinking in another town, he/she could be suspended from school in Dedham.

Some students said the policy is reasonable.

“If it's the school's law, you shouldn't do it,” said Megan Rutherford, a student at Dedham High.

“I think it’s fair keeping everyone in line, you know?” said Jay Maxwell, a

Dedham High football player.

Other students believe the policy is an invasion of privacy.

“I think that’s sort of unfair because first of all, especially if it doesn’t happen in Dedham, and like it’s not in school…it’s not the school’s business,” said another student, Tessa Louidor.

The principal wouldn't comment on camera and the superintendant was not available. Many parents didn't want to speak to 7News about the policy.

The policy, which is a watered down version of the original, took effect Thursday. Initially, the policy called for year-round reporting of incidents and reserved the right to punish students for being in the mere presence of alcohol.