L.A. School Board Rejects Stiffer Penalty on Weapons

Insanity seems to prevail in the school board decision not to automatically expel students armed with lethal weapons on campus.

Your editorial “When Students Tote Guns, Not Books” (May 9) was equally outrageous. I quote “. . . without kicking out frightened youngsters who carry a Scout knife for protection against gangs and bullies.”

Thus the writer sees nothing wrong with a student carrying a Scout knife to use against those who threaten him at school. Who is to decide who the gang members and bullies are, each student? A Scout knife is a deadly weapon and is dangerous if used for self-protection. But it is really no match for a gun. I humbly suggest that the school board enact a new rule that all students can carry guns for protection. Of course, the teachers would be issued assault rifles to ensure fair play. Maybe the NRA could be talked into training the students in quick draw and accuracy.

LEE L. BANDLE

Palm Desert