Mother of teen disputes daughter’s suspension for not reporting classmate with gun

NBC 5 has learned that three students from Mesquite Charter School were suspended after a classmate brought a gun to school, leading to a standoff with the police. They were disciplined for not reporting the incident to adults.

Martha Fonseca expressed her dismay, stating that she had always taught her daughter to speak up, but the situation at Pioneer Technology Arts Academy caught them off guard.

On February 19, a 16-year-old student at the academy showed up armed, leading to a confrontation with Mesquite Police officers. Fonseca’s daughter was among the suspended students for not reporting the peer’s possession of a gun prior to the incident.

Fonseca emphasized that her daughter froze and was scared during the ordeal, unsure of what to do. According to a student, the armed peer had flashed the gun in class and made threatening remarks before the confrontation.

Fonseca argued that her daughter couldn’t have foreseen the outcome and shouldn’t be punished further. Despite having meetings with administrators, expulsion is being considered for the suspended students.

The school released a statement citing privacy laws and assured that decisions were made in accordance with policies, prioritizing the safety of students and staff. They also mentioned arranging meetings to address concerns and enhance school safety.

Fonseca believes her daughter is a victim in this situation and hopes for a fair resolution. The school administrators informed her that a final decision on disciplinary action would be made within a week.

Edgar Villa, another parent, expressed support for the suspended students and criticized the school for its handling of the incident.