Missouri boy suspended for art resembling gun with soda cans

A 13-year-old student from Liberty Middle School in Mountain View, Missouri, was suspended for three days after posting a photo of Dr. Pepper cans arranged to resemble an AK-47 rifle. The school administration deemed the image a threat, despite the boy's intention to express creativity through art. His mother defended him, arguing that the cans posed no real danger and questioned the inconsistency in how similar images of real firearms are treated by school staff. The school district's superintendent, Lanna Tharp, stated that the post caused fear among students and highlighted the serious nature of making threats, even in a non-violent context. The school emphasized the importance of discussing the implications of such posts with students, as they can disrupt the learning environment and lead to significant disciplinary actions. In addition to the suspension, the boy's permanent school record will reflect charges of 'cyberbullying' and 'making a school threat.' His mother expressed concern over the potential long-term impact of these charges on her son's future, arguing that the punishment was excessive for what she viewed as harmless artistic expression. This incident raises broader questions about the balance between maintaining school safety and allowing students to express themselves creatively. The case has sparked discussions among parents and educators about the implications of social media and the interpretation of threats in a school setting.