Interesting project topic...WWYD?

I currently teach Business Ownership. Its a mixed class (grades 9 -12).

We started our final project and they have to create a "themed" restaurant.

Yesterday, I was collecting papers to see what work the students completed and one of my students is creating an "IHOP" - International House of POT

So, I saw this and said to him, you know that is inappropriate for school considering it is illegal.

He says, Well my location is Amsterdam and its legal there.

I said, I know that, however I would appreciate it if you could pick something more suitable for school.

He said, this is what I want to do.

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Question? WHat do you do? If I tell him no to do something else, I don't think he is going to do something else, because he has done a lot of work this week on it. He is the kind of student that you get excited about when they decide to do a project?

So do I let him do it, so at least he is doing something and learning.

Or do I say no and face the chance he won't do anything?

Re: Interesting project topic...WWYD?

personally, i wouldnt allow it. i would be concerned about how parents/principals would react, and i dont feel a restaurant based on an illegal drug is a suitable topic for a HS student. i would have him pick sometihng else.

Re: Interesting project topic...WWYD?

Anything that involves drugs and alcohol is not school appropriate. In our school that is policy and he would receive an F even if the work is appropriate.

If you are uncomfortable since it's your first year there, I would approach the dean or principal and see his/her opinion and then you can say to the principal said no even if it's in Amsterdam.

Re: Interesting project topic...WWYD?

Re: Interesting project topic...WWYD?

I wouldn't let him do it either. It's not appropriate for school. Honestly, if he is in high school he should know better. He probably knew he shouldn't be picking the topic when he did.
It sounds like he may be testing the limits with you a little. I would definitely let your principal or dean know what it going on so they can back you up if he complains. If it were me, when I told the student no, I would not say it came from the principal or dean. I would say it came from me. I think to do otherwise, takes away some of your authority. JMHO
I would encourage him to come up with something else that is similar to it but legal. Maybe he can think of International House of (insert something legal here) that he can substitute.
Good luck!