Receiving news that your child has been suspended or recommended for expulsion or exclusion from school can be overwhelming and distressing. As a parent, understanding the steps to take in response to this situation can help ensure your child’s educational rights are protected and that they receive the necessary support to move forward. No matter if your child is in 4th grade or a senior in high school, at KAltman Law our Student Defense Advocates are ready to assist you through this daunting process.
Understanding the Suspension or Expulsion
1. Review the Notice – Schools are required to provide written documentation explaining the reason for the suspension, expulsion, or exclusion. Carefully review this document to understand the school’s justification, proposed sanction(s), and next steps.
How K Altman Law Can Assist: Our team can assist you in understanding the disciplinary action the school district is taking and your child’s rights. We examine to see if the school’s reasoning and recommended sanctions are aligned with applicable laws and policies. Additionally, we assess the situation to identify any procedural errors or inconsistencies that could impact the matter.
2. Know Your Rights – Each school district has policies regarding discipline, and federal laws provide protections for students, particularly those with disabilities. To familiarize yourself with understanding school discipline policies, refer to Understanding K-12 School Discipline Policies: A Guide for Parents, the first blog post in this series.
How K Altman Law Can Assist: Our team can help parents understand school district policies and state and federal laws to ensure their child’s rights are not being violated. We provide dedicated support in advocating for students during disciplinary proceedings, ensuring that due process is followed and that parents understand every step of the process. If a child has a disability and parents require special education advisement, we work closely with our Special Education Advisors throughout the entire process.
Rest assured, our Student Defense Advocates are equipped to guide parents through this process, offering expert advocacy during school meetings and hearings. By having an advocate who understands the educational landscape, parents can make informed decisions that best support their child’s future.
3. Meet with School Administration – If the situation is unclear or you disagree with the decision, request a meeting with school officials to discuss the matter. Before attending the meeting, it is best for parents to understand their child’s rights and the school district’s disciplinary policies and student code of conduct requirements.
How K Altman Law Can Assist: A Student Defense Advocate can help you prepare for this meeting and, in most cases, attend to advocate on your child’s behalf. It is crucial for parents to enter the meeting with a clear understanding of school policies and specific allegations against their child. Engaging a Student Defense Advocate as early as possible is always beneficial, ensuring your child’s rights are protected from the start.
Supporting Your Child
At K Altman Law we understand that the process can be daunting, and your primary goal is supporting your child. During this time, your child may feel confused, upset, or scared. While you are emotionally supporting your child, let our Student Defense Advocates assist you in navigating through this challenging time.
By taking a proactive and informed approach, parents can help their children navigate the challenges and work towards a successful educational future. At KAltman Law, we have the expert experience necessary when parents need assistance in defending their child because we understand the complexities of school disciplinary policies and are dedicated to ensuring that all students receive fair treatment and the best possible outcome for their education.
