Yeah, most of us is understanding that time and place. The question is not was his son in the wrong for defending himself. It was more, was the other kid picking on his son the whole time, and the hat part was the last straw? Since we where told the other boy been in more trouble then just this, is he a class bully? What other factors where in play here?
If my sons where in the same boat and his, I would hope my boys would have done the same thing in return. It is a time and place to pick a fight, but you always have the right to defend yourself, in words or fists. 1st things 1st, try to solve the problem in words, and if the other party gets tired of that and throws the 1st punch, then let all hell break lose. Just one thing I will make sure I kids do know, if they have to do self-defense, they know to only defend themselves till the threat is no more.
and yes, I do agree about the other boy's parents....but can only assume that since they did not see the Principal to discuss their son's suspension, that they either (1) don't care...(2) he's done it before, maybe repeatedly...or (3) he hasn't told them or given them the suspension papers. But I believe most all schools inform the parents via the telephone when things of this nature occurs.....I've heard of some kids getting suspended from schools, don't tell their parents and just "pretend" they're going to school and just goof off all day at the mall or some place. Some even go back home after their parents have gone to work.