Kiera Wilmot

Kiera Wilmot is a 16-year old honors student who has become the focal point of a U.S. nationwide controversy about scientific experimentation, rule of law, and racism.
On May 1, 2013, she conducted a chemistry experiment on school grounds, prior to the morning bell. The experiment consisted in mixing HCL with aluminium in a plastic bottle. The plastic bottle exploded, without harming anyone. As a result, the police was called, Wilmot was arrested, and charged with a felony. The police report is available on the website of Scientific American.
The scientific community quickly mobilised in her support, claiming that such experimentation is necessary for science. Also, suggestions have been made that white children in analogous situations are given more leniency.
By contrast, the school board and the attorney general support a zero-tolerance perspective, and the School Board has stated:

Anytime a student makes a bad choice it is disappointing to us. Unfortunately, the incident that occurred at Bartow High School yesterday was a serious breach of conduct. In order to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment, we simply must uphold our code of conduct rules. We urge our parents to join us in conveying the message that there are consequences to actions. We will not compromise the safety and security of our students and staff.

The court case is on-going.

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