Julie Kaputa walked into her first period with a latte, only to be told by Ms. Ramirez that she must either dump it or head to the office. The teacher cited the school’s Code of Conduct, and Kaputa was suspended on school grounds the same day.
The policy that sparked the incident was adopted at a Board of Education meeting on August 10, a decision the senior class largely opposed. Kaputa said she found the new code tucked into the agenda but the board failed to hold the required public hearing.
Calling her act "civil disobedience," Kaputa explained that the lack of transparency forced her to protest. A committee of six students, two teachers and one administrator was convened that same day to investigate the matter.
School officials defended the rule, claiming it was designed to curb smuggling of alcohol or THC‑laden drinks, while noting water bottles were still allowed. Kaputa countered that the policy was inconsistent and that students should be able to bring non‑alcoholic drinks.
Kaputa’s family, who had hoped her senior year would be uneventful, says the incident sparked a debate about student voice. Meanwhile, teacher Mr. Singh said the school is open to reviewing the policy.
The Board of Education will consider a proposal to restore the old no‑food policy at its next meeting, scheduled for September 15, giving the community a chance to weigh in.