What are the Rights of Parents When Their Children Are Disciplined at School?
Public education is free. In order for children to effectively learn, schools must be safe, and students are expected to behave. At times, disruptions occur. When a student disrupts a classroom, school officials may enforce school rules and discipline the child. Although corporal punishment was a standard not too long ago, some schools districts forbid it; others permit it under controlled circumstances. Parents may not like the methods school officials use to discipline children, and some parents may bristle at corporal punishment being meted out to their child.
If parents disagree with a school’s disciplinary methods because they are inappropriate, discriminatory, or cruel, parents have many rights. For instance, they have the right to appeal the punishment imposed on their child. If parents opt to appeal the punishment imposed on their child for breaking school rules, they must follow the appeal procedure described in their child’s school handbook and should collect all information pertaining to the matter at hand, take thorough notes while meeting with or talking to school officials, keep all records and correspondence, and keep all the dates straight.
Regardless of the ability to appeal a decision made by the school, parents may have other rights. If a teacher or school goes too far and bruises or injures the child – or uses corporal punishment inappropriately – parents may file a lawsuit for monetary damages.
If you feel your or your child’s rights are being ignored, incorrectly applied, or violated, there are legal remedies available. If you have questions about America’s education and related laws, talk to a lawyer. For more information and to have your questions answered, contact Nashville Education Attorney Perry A. Craft.
Perry A. Craft has dedicated his life to helping people in need. He has tried, settled, or resolved numerous civil and criminal cases in State and Federal courts, and has represented teachers and administrators before school boards, administrative judges, and the state Board of Education. Learn more about Attorney Craft.