First-grader gets a break

BEAR, Del. (AP) — A Delaware first-grader who faced a lengthy punishment for bringing his favorite utensil to school — a combination folding knife, fork and spoon — has gotten a reprieve.

The school board made a hasty change to its strict code of conduct Tuesday night.

The seven-member board voted unanimously to reduce the punishment for kindergartners and first-graders who bring weapons to school or commit other violent offenses to a suspension ranging from three to five days.

Six-year-old Zachary Christie had faced 45 days in an alternative school for troublemakers after he brought the utensil to school with the intent of using it to eat his lunch.