August 22, 2001

EL CAJON -- Grossmont trustees yesterday rejected a legal claim filed by the family of the freshman killed in the shooting at Santana High School in March.

The claim said the family of 14-year-old Bryan Zuckor suffered an "irreplaceable loss" but did not make any specific allegations of wrongdoing against the district.

It asks for the maximum amount of money the district's insurance would allow, but does not specify an amount for damages.

Boards typically reject claims. The action by the trustees means the family has six months to file a lawsuit against the Grossmont Union High School District.

The family's attorney, Kenneth Hoyt, said he's hopeful the family and the district will reach a settlement without having to go to court. Hoyt said he and some family members recently had a satisfying meeting with the district's attorney to discuss the possibility of an agreement.

The district's attorney, Dan Shinoff, could not be reached for comment.