Can You Fight Expulsion?

Before a student can be expelled from a public school, a formal expulsion hearing must be held. During an expulsion hearing, the student has the right to: Receive notice of the specific rules they are charged with breaking Explain their side of the story Present evidence and call witnesses to testify on their behalf Be …

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How Do You Defend Yourself in a Disciplinary Hearing in College?

Students at public colleges and universities who face the possibility of a severe punishment such as expulsion or suspension are entitled to certain legal protections before disciplinary action is taken. These rights are required by the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, which says that the government (or government actors, such as public schools) …

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What Constitutes a Violation of FERPA?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student educational records. It applies to all schools, colleges, universities, and other agencies that receive funds from the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA gives parents certain rights concerning their children’s education records – like the right to review …

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What Is Fraternity Hazing?

Hazing is a type of initiation process that is used to welcome new members into the fraternity. Although it can vary from one organization to another, in general, there are three types of hazing: physical, mental, and emotional. These acts often take on forms such as sleep deprivation, excessive exercise, or isolation. It may also …

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What If an IEP Is Not Working?

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), schools must develop and follow an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for children with disabilities in need of special education services. The IEP must be specifically tailored to address the individual educational needs of each child and identify the services that the school will provide to meet these …

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What Is an IEP Violation?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that was passed in 1990 to protect children with disabilities. The IDEA requires schools to do the following: Identify and evaluate any child they suspect has a disability Provide services to help the child in their academic development Provide for parents’ involvement in their …

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Can You Sue a School District?

While there are many limitations on the situations where you can sue a school district, it can be done under certain circumstances. Due to a legal theory called “sovereign immunity,” the government and government agencies like school districts are generally immune from lawsuits. Fortunately, most states have waived this immunity in some instances, allowing students …

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