By: Faith Chen

Koror, Palau — Palau High School and the Ministry of Education clarified their policies after reports surfaced that a 14-year-old freshman had been expelled for allegedly selling marijuana on campus.

During a press briefing on Aug. 13, Education Minister Dale Jenkins said the school’s policy does not mandate immediate expulsion for students found using, possessing, or selling illegal drugs. “Our policy focuses on prevention and support alongside disciplinary measures,” Jenkins said.

Palau High School Principal Smyth Rdang confirmed no students have been expelled or formally disciplined in connection with the reported incident. “I am still in the process of making the final decision,” the principal Rdang said, noting that the policy allows two days for finalizing disciplinary actions and requires a meeting following such incidents.

In a preventive and supportive measure, the student has been assigned to an in-school suspension program. Jenkins explained that the student attends regular classes while spending designated times in a supervised area participating in drug prevention activities with counselors and teachers.

The Ministry emphasized that the school’s approach balances enforcement with rehabilitation, aiming to foster student well-being and prevent future incidents. Parents and community members are awaiting the school’s final decision.