Recent drinking related incidents at Friday night football games have reignited discussion over what policy changes should be implemented at Pascack Valley.

Currently policies include a four-day suspension, drug testing, meeting with a drug/alcohol counselor, and a two-week suspension of after-school activities.

“Drinking is a significant concern, and is a two-fold issue. The first part is that someone is going to get seriously hurt or injured, and the second part is that I don’t think the students understand the consequences,” said Pascack Valley principal Tom DeMaio.

“Suspensions are there as a deterrent,” DeMaio added. “At the same time I believe greatest decision is choice, and I agree with the idea that if you’re old enough to make decisions, you’re old enough to handle the consequence.”

Keeping this in mind, the administration has been weighing the option of moving the day and time of the games, from Friday nights to Saturday afternoons, although DeMaio admitted he’s “not sure if it’s the solution.”

Longer-term punishments, such as not being allowed at any sporting events for the rest of the year, are also being considered.

Implementing policy changes is not only the goal amongst the administration, it’s also a goal amongst the students.

“The goal is to eliminate drinking and finding a new way to handle situations,” said DeMaio.

Mr. Tom Gattoni, Director of Athletics believes the goal is attainable if “it comes from the students,” and another goal should be “at the very least have PV be a healthy environment.”

The administrators aren’t the only ones voicing concern.

“Drinking has always been an issue, and it has affected our students’ and school’s reputation,” said senior Jenny Schneider, vice president of the Executive Council. “The executive council, as well as the other student governments, have come together and recognized that it’s time for a change within our reputation before it’s too late. The student government would also be in support of the new fan policy that may be put into place.”