Columbia County school board members rejected the appeal of an Evans High School student suspended for bringing a gun on campus, according to a summary report released Wednesday.

Wes Ivie, a 16-year-old junior and star lineman on the school's undefeated football team, had been serving an in-school suspension during his appeal. He must now attend the alternative school for the rest of the semester before returning to Evans High, according to a written summary of the board's Tuesday night decision.

The teen said he had forgotten that he'd left a hunting rifle in his vehicle after a weekend trip, according to both his mother, Anita Ivie, and a police report. When he saw police at the school conducting a random search Oct. 24 he reported the gun at the school office and was not charged.

"It was clear to the investigating officer that this was a mistake and no criminal intent existed," Columbia County sheriff's Capt. Steve Morris said.

Though the school board decided Tuesday night, trustees refused to discuss their closed-door vote. School board attorney Pete Fletcher said the board is allowed to keep details secret because of an exception to state open meeting laws. School boards may discuss and vote on student disciplinary matters in closed sessions and then report findings in writing at a later time, Mr. Fletcher said.

Ms. Ivie said Wednesday that she intends to appeal the board's decision to the state Board of Education.

"He did the right thing," Ms. Ivie said of her son Tuesday.

She said this sets a bad precedent for other students.

"What incentive do kids have to do the right thing if they know they're going to be punished for it," she said.

During the meeting, board Chairwoman Regina Buccafusco said that while she appreciates the support shown Wes by his classmates, educators and others in the community, disciplinary decisions can't be swayed by those sentiments.

Evans High School head football coach Marty Jackson said he discussed the situation with his players at Wednesday's practice as they prepared for Friday's playoff game.

"It's like an injury," Mr. Jackson said. "If somebody goes down with a knee injury, somebody else has to step up. That's what the team has to do. They have to step up."

A captain this year with the Knights, Wes hasn't played in the past three games and will be ineligible during the playoffs, Mr. Jackson said. School policy prevents him from even attending any home games, he said.

Reach Donnie Fetter at (706) 868-1222, ext. 115, or donnie.fetter@augustachronicle.com.