tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21712094502684110342024-02-07T19:37:46.643-08:00Education Law and Student RightsTHIS BLOG HAS MOVED TO https://edlaw4students.com/blog/- Blog by California student attorney Michelle Ball about education law and student rights in public and private school settings, from preschool through college. As a student lawyer, Michelle helps with school expulsion, special education, suspension, discipline, bullying, 504, sports, discrimination, student records, injury, and many other California school issues. Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comBlogger181125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-38028422963480983362021-03-26T12:06:00.013-07:002021-03-26T13:04:19.144-07:00CIF Denial of Sports Eligibility: Which Denials Are Appealable?<p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
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</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">CIF, the California Interscholastic Federation, which governs all high school sports in California, is often mystical, and its rules are completely confusing. When a student is denied the right to play sports for some reason, the immediate instinct is to file an appeal to CIF higher ups. But only limited issues are appealable with CIF per <a href="https://www.cifstate.org/governance/constitution/index" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">CIF Bylaws</a>.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK42jumwds2bmLzM33lROh_hpZihM5HcMl1I_AmkYkoVRm2igYBX-cDnauaX2zPWATEcaakvK_8-_piovZ7YbEIxdQzdBByX0XmWCa7YzRXt3ukRoH6kxeHMJsW6KsmCEs_plxAa_RCw/s640/football-67701_640.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK42jumwds2bmLzM33lROh_hpZihM5HcMl1I_AmkYkoVRm2igYBX-cDnauaX2zPWATEcaakvK_8-_piovZ7YbEIxdQzdBByX0XmWCa7YzRXt3ukRoH6kxeHMJsW6KsmCEs_plxAa_RCw/s320/football-67701_640.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p></p><h2><span class="underline" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u>What IS Appealable to CIF?</u></span></h2>
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</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Here are the matters that may be appealable to CIF: </span></p>
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</span><ol><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Conflict with a coach</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Following a coach</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Pre-enrollment contact</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Club coach at new school</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Relocated coach</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Athletically motivated </span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Age requirement</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Charge of semester of attendance</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Passing 20 semester credits</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Former coach</span></li></ol>
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</span><h2><span class="underline" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u>What is Not Appealable to CIF?</u></span></h2>
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</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Here are the matters that may not be appealable to CIF:</span></p>
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</span><ol><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Sit out period</span><ul><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Per <a href="https://cifstate.org/governance/constitution/200_Series.pdf" target="_blank">CIF bylaws</a>: "Q: My son was denied the Sit Out Period. May we appeal this ruling? A: No."</span></li></ul></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Hardship, all bases </span><ul><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Court ordered transfers</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Children of divorced parents</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Individual student safety incidents</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Discontinued program</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Foster and homeless children</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Military service</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Married status</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Board of education ruling.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Per <a href="https://cifstate.org/governance/constitution/200_Series.pdf" target="_blank">CIF bylaws</a>: "All eligibility determinations made [under this hardship section] are final as all of these hardship circumstances are factual in nature and can be documents."</span></li></ul></li></ol>
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</span><h2><span class="underline" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u>Unclear Appeal Rights to CIF?</u></span></h2>
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</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">There are also areas where it is not clear in CIF bylaws whether a matter may be appealable, such as:</span></p>
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</span><ol><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Discipline transfer</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Mistake in documents submitted to CIF</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Scholastic eligibility</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Bad faith</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Student starts living with one parent (after initial residential eligibility was established with two parents) but there is no court order or formal custody agreement formalizing this</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Other areas not defined in CIF policy</span></li></ol>
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</span><h2><span class="underline" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><u>Importance of Ensuring Schools Understand Transfer Bases</u></span></h2>
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</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">This confusing situation emphasizes the strong need for parents to ENSURE that they assist the new school in understanding the reason for the transfer and provide any formal documents supporting the transfer. They also need to assist the new school to submit the transfer paperwork to CIF and ensure it is carefully done. The seemingly simple <a href="https://www.cif-la.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=56396&type=d&pREC_ID=563663" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">transfer form </a>needs to have all evidence to support the bases for the transfer e.g. being based on hardship, as there won't be a CIF appeal if the paperwork fails to be provided.</span></p>
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</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Parents also need to ensure the prior school is aware of any reason a student may be transferring that may meet CIF "hardship" or other categories, so that school can also report the situation correctly when contacted by CIF.</span></p>
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</span><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Most parents are completely unaware of the impact a terrible filing will have on the student, until it is too late. Parents need to be fully aware of these issues prior to enrolling in the new school so they can handle this with the student's new coach or athletic director properly.</span></p>
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</span><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Website</span></a>, <a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Blog</span></a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/law_ofc" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Twitter,</span></a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqZMNY6Nj_ufN-7YSBbFMVQ" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Youtube</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lawofficeofmichelleball/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/law-office-of-michelle-ball/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-55105287670769414552021-03-23T12:11:00.004-07:002021-03-23T12:58:16.757-07:00 14 Steps To Attack A School Suspension<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995 <o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">What does a parent do when their child, a stellar wonderful student, gets a suspension, which may tarnish their education records forever? Attack it and try to get it overturned of course.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">A student suspension is a permanent black mark in a school record, which will lurk in the background waiting to communicate negative about the student. It will come up on college applications, depending on the college, and can harm a student in their future prospects. How much is unclear. What is clear is that suspensions are a big deal and should be addressed, not ignored, if possible.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gJxdcK6VaF3skMV2zNB8ja-R7Zw2tWQxGW72AtbOO4j1GD0q0oNPd6xy5CzArklCujeNfhFSxo_wiHT3lFrbT1IULZ1YoJuD4vxo7acKMkwC9gSZ5LeTJ1KWaKY8vlT0bE9IlfbpqRU/s640/people-4050698_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2gJxdcK6VaF3skMV2zNB8ja-R7Zw2tWQxGW72AtbOO4j1GD0q0oNPd6xy5CzArklCujeNfhFSxo_wiHT3lFrbT1IULZ1YoJuD4vxo7acKMkwC9gSZ5LeTJ1KWaKY8vlT0bE9IlfbpqRU/s320/people-4050698_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">A parent should immediately take action if a student is suspended:</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">1) Meet with the school to get the school's version of what happened. Take thorough notes.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">2) It is not a great idea for parents to question their child in the school office about what happened as this may give the school evidence.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">3) Get a copy of the suspension form at this meeting if possible. Sometimes schools don't even provide a written suspension form (in breach of the law), so if a parent does not have the suspension form, they should get it ASAP.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">4) Review the meeting notes and the suspension form thoroughly.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">5) Meet with the student in private and get his or her version of what happened.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">6) Compare the suspension form and what it says to what the student says to determine what may be accurate on the suspension form, and what is not.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">7) Request the witness statements and other evidence of or related to the suspension. These are student records, and must be provided, although schools often will balk at requests for these (see <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=49069.7.">Ed Code 49069.7</a>).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">8) Review these.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">9) Review the school policies on suspensions and the practices and procedures related to them.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">10) Figure out what is wrong with the suspension- does it not meet school code, should the student have received an alternate punishment (see <a href="https://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/2020/02/school-suspension-for-first-offense-is.html" target="_blank">my blog </a>on this)? Even if the suspension is still appropriate, there can be other arguments to attack it, such as the student's lack of discipline history, the stories of the witnesses conflict, etc.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">11) After a parent gets all arguments together, a written document should be drafted to the school outlining the support for the student, arguments, and what is desired: the student returned to school now (if still out), and the suspension rescinded (reversed) and expunged.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">12) Forward to the school and request a meeting with someone who has the power to overturn the suspension, such as the principal.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">13) Meet with the school and use good manners, firm evidence and positive arguments to get an agreement to get rid of the student suspension now, or at a date certain in the future, such as at the end of the current semester or school year.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">14) Review the student records to ensure the suspension is not noted anywhere.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Do it! </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">If parents take action, they can potentially get suspensions out of student records and positively influence the student's future for years to come.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Website</span></a>, <a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Blog</span></a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/law_ofc" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Twitter,</span></a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqZMNY6Nj_ufN-7YSBbFMVQ" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Youtube</span></a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lawofficeofmichelleball/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">Facebook</span></a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/law-office-of-michelle-ball/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">disclaimer</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-65703928080698937672021-03-04T17:07:00.003-08:002021-03-26T10:30:13.956-07:00Where Should A School Discrimination Complaint Be Filed?<p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">When a parent or student experiences discrimination in the school system, they have a choice of where they want to file for an administrative review (e.g. by a government body). Should they pick the federal government to review the matter or should they file with their local school or college? </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">There are generally two choices for non-court</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><sup>∗∗</sup><span style="font-size: 26.6667px;"> </span>administrative discrimination complaints depending on the entity involved, one being the school or college itself, and the other being a government entity.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">For a private school student, in a school which takes no federal money and is non-religious, parents and students may be able to go to the <a href="https://www.justice.gov/crt" target="_blank">United States Department of Justice (USDOJ)</a>. The DOJ will then determine if they may accept the matter for investigation. A parent or student may also pursue internal filings in their private school, if available. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4M7UBIJ2FREKjf2aduhnwVDok7ebHCjXKoV5wE9VM1mhtVQHJM4S8AlJRkU2CKciHIqzn1VMl72mNxmvpovfV3TQiBiRb7qjAuZOKfq4vBGmqPBWsgylppF9PO6Kfk_NiI2AurKfOC0/s2048/pensive-dark-skinned-college-student-holds-papers-textbooks.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4M7UBIJ2FREKjf2aduhnwVDok7ebHCjXKoV5wE9VM1mhtVQHJM4S8AlJRkU2CKciHIqzn1VMl72mNxmvpovfV3TQiBiRb7qjAuZOKfq4vBGmqPBWsgylppF9PO6Kfk_NiI2AurKfOC0/s320/pensive-dark-skinned-college-student-holds-papers-textbooks.jpg" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">For other students, the choice is usually between filing a request for investigation with the school or college or the <a href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html" target="_blank">Office for Civil Rights (OCR), in the United States Department of Education (USDOE)</a>.</span><p></p><div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Why is this a choice?</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">First, the <a href="https://www.cde.ca.gov/" target="_blank">California Department of Education (CDE)</a> does NOT take discrimination complaints directly and only looks at them <a href="https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/cp/" target="_blank">on appeal</a> from a public school. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Second, if a student files with their school or college, and the school or college says there was no discrimination, OCR will not usually review the matter other than the process. This means the feds won't review the substance of the alleged discriminatory conduct if a parent or student already filed with their school or college and the matter was concluded (in their favor or not).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">So, students and parents have to decide at the getgo where to file a request for an investigation, and it is an important determination.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">My personal preference is OCR, as OCR tends to be more objective, is not afraid to find discrimination occurred (as it is not their school!), has more resources, and truly aims to get a resolution in most cases. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIygIED8Snc5hlz9UFAhe33xjXkEMdXCqmQCG0JvRTax-sV3ZG-x7jcpJKcJGDRDONtV92tJhHFrZApVyBl-S3T2f7Q_EW00JqtUoME9VRY7eoNhodrXVHKM-oQSkiPy2wx84Dh2cR91k/s2048/mgDyCZu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIygIED8Snc5hlz9UFAhe33xjXkEMdXCqmQCG0JvRTax-sV3ZG-x7jcpJKcJGDRDONtV92tJhHFrZApVyBl-S3T2f7Q_EW00JqtUoME9VRY7eoNhodrXVHKM-oQSkiPy2wx84Dh2cR91k/w400-h266/mgDyCZu.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">How motivated do you think a school district is to find discrimination occurred in one of its own schools or by one of its staff? </span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Exactly. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">This is why OCR may be the better place to start.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">There is never any guarantee OCR will find actual discrimination, but it seems more likely they will more objectively pursue the school discrimination investigation and potentially have fairer results. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">OCR can leverage the government purse against schools to obtain correction of wrongs and justice for students.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">OCR does not take all complaints for investigation, so it is important for a parent or student to write the initial filing properly, file it timely, and attach any evidence which supports the claims.<sup>∗∗<sup></sup></sup></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a><span style="color: black;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the l<i>aw.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></i></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>∗∗Administrative</i><i> filings are separate and distinct from claims students may file in court and I am in no way reviewing those matters here.</i></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-64078727104728591162021-02-18T11:13:00.004-08:002021-02-22T11:20:05.850-08:00School Expulsion Hearing Evidence Q & A<p><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p>Many parents envision expulsion hearings are mini-trials where their child has full rights to object and exclude things, like in regular court. However, public school expulsion hearings, as hearings governed by <a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/administrative_law#">administrative law </a>(the law relating to government agencies), have different rules from regular courts. There are some parameters for the expulsion hearing process, but what is allowed can be quite confusing, especially to a parent on their own. Here are some basics on the evidence at expulsion hearings.</o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><b>Do regular rules of "evidence" for court trials apply in school expulsion hearings?</b></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><b><br /></b></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">No.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><b><br /></b></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><b>Am I entitled to all evidence the school has against my child before the hearing? </b></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p>Parents are entitled to all evidence the school will use at the hearing. Usually the school or district will provide the evidence to the family at the suspension extension meeting, but if not, it can be requested.</o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ETeYlAk4hj_3v7aRrjNrj583VvhqrCmfyCuvpNDspygDFyyblScTmS1pNicI5dGGMzm6_X12Psav8rRuhOn3Ys7oE4KMVMgN55Hcf0T5n-RAEo9GC-mfGB5NpT6Jxarle0LyZw0l-LE/s667/photo-1592806088932-05058af0ad8d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="500" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ETeYlAk4hj_3v7aRrjNrj583VvhqrCmfyCuvpNDspygDFyyblScTmS1pNicI5dGGMzm6_X12Psav8rRuhOn3Ys7oE4KMVMgN55Hcf0T5n-RAEo9GC-mfGB5NpT6Jxarle0LyZw0l-LE/w300-h400/photo-1592806088932-05058af0ad8d.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><b style="font-size: 14pt;">How do I get the expulsion hearing evidence from the school if it was not given to me? </b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Simply request it, preferably in writing and via email.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><b>What evidence is needed to expel my child? </b></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p>The school should prove the matter with substantial evidence that the student actually committed the acts alleged and they breach the codes.</o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><b>What evidence can the school submit at the hearing?</b></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p>They can submit anything they gathered, including statements from students about the allegations, even if the student who gave the statement or testimony does not attend the hearing. </o:p></span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">They can also present witnesses or testimony to support the allegations.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;">What is hearsay evidence for purposes of an expulsion hearing? </b></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">In very rudimentary terms, hearsay evidence is evidence offered to prove something happened from someone not directly testifying or who was not an actual witness to what happened. For example, sometimes schools submit statements where students write rumors- the statement and the contents are hearsay. [Please note: hearsay is a highly complicated subject and this is not a complete discussion of hearsay or its exceptions]</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;">What if a student did see something happen, but does not testify at an expulsion hearing? Is their written statement hearsay?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Yes, usually. A written statement, when the student does not present themselves for questioning is typically hearsay. There is an exception when a hearing panel rules that a student would be "subject to an unreasonable risk of harm," were they to testify and the panel can decide to accept their written statement instead (see <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48918">California Education Code 48918(i)(3)</a>) and it then will not be considered hearsay. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">A statement from an accused person, where they admit they "did it," is considered an admission and is acceptable under a hearsay exception (see </span><a href="https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/evidence-code/evid-sect-1220.html" style="font-size: 18.6667px;">California Evidence Code section 1220</a><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Can a student be expelled based on hearsay alone? </b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">No. This is specifically prohibited in <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48918">California Education Code section 48918(f)(2)</a>. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><b style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Why are we talking about hearsay and what does it matter to the student being expelled?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">It matters because if a student did not admit the allegations, and there was only hearsay at the hearing, the expulsion may be overturned on an appeal to the county board of education.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b><br /></b></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><b>What evidence is presented at most school hearings? </b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">A school or the district will usually present a packet of information, including written statements, testimony from an administrator (like the vice principal or principal) and may present an eye witness to the alleged wrong. Districts vary in how well they conduct hearings.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUsvHZWr0mO7nDnCEFEOC-dC40rePCsemN5QW_s1CJPUr24QfRGkxdHIU4vs9jWDD_ByXMNEenFXMeQ-K878ZfndrDr1tgGlpyqrY4UG-61Zt_Zdv5Gidq4XttxbQw4RNALev2EdbpZCo/s2048/judge-slamming-down-a-gavel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUsvHZWr0mO7nDnCEFEOC-dC40rePCsemN5QW_s1CJPUr24QfRGkxdHIU4vs9jWDD_ByXMNEenFXMeQ-K878ZfndrDr1tgGlpyqrY4UG-61Zt_Zdv5Gidq4XttxbQw4RNALev2EdbpZCo/s320/judge-slamming-down-a-gavel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><b>What can a parent submit at an expulsion hearing?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Paper evidence, witnesses, character witnesses, letters supporting the student, pictures, videos or any other evidence they want which is relevant. They may also submit a legal brief (paper with the law and facts) or arguments supporting the student's innocence.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>What can a parent say at the hearing?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">The parent or their attorney or a nonattorney advisor can usually do an opening and closing statement, and can question witnesses. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Can a Parent be a witness?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Yes, i</span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">f the parent saw the act happen, they can testify as a direct witness. If not, a</span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"> parent may be a character witness. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><b>Can a parent ask a school to help them force witnesses to testify at the hearing (aka subpoena them)? </b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Yes. A parent can ask the school board to issue subpoenas to witnesses who actually saw what happened, aka percipient witnesses (see <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48918">California Education Code 48918(i)(1)</a>).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>If there is an evidence issue at hearing, who rules?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">The person or group overseeing the proceeding (for example the expulsion panel, board of education or hearing officer) should review the question and make a ruling.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><b>Can a parent record an expulsion hearing?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Not without permission, which is usually denied. The school district will make an official record, with either a recording or a court reporter.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><br />
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Website</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Blog</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Twitter</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Youtube</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">Facebook</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">disclaimer</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14pt;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-49101330684532343122021-02-15T17:15:00.001-08:002021-02-15T17:15:46.854-08:00Switching Schools Within Your District: Open Enrollment And Intradistrict Transfer Options <p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> <i>By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</i></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes students are just not at the right school, but their parents like the school district they live within and want to keep their kids in it. There are processes in place to achieve this goal, but certain requirements must be met. </span></o:p></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some options available to parents include open enrollment or filing an application for intradistrict transfer per school district policies.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><b><u><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Open Enrollment</span></u></b></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">What is school district <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=35160.5.&lawCode=EDC">open enrollment</a>? This is a process where a student living within a district can opt to attend any school in that district. All a parent needs to do usually is return the relevant forms, listing their top choices for schools. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SkV3S4D7fXLtZmxiINofXPjePgTTf16ZB2EowLdkvKu80YLyMfziIhhr4f-Eu_VOlYaX4vixsLpkci5hFn3Qyxo0mzuioraOrkWE8Oi3ZwSx2cr5C17ortG5bePbDqDu139jEmhC1nU/s2048/romain-dancre-doplSDELX7E-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2SkV3S4D7fXLtZmxiINofXPjePgTTf16ZB2EowLdkvKu80YLyMfziIhhr4f-Eu_VOlYaX4vixsLpkci5hFn3Qyxo0mzuioraOrkWE8Oi3ZwSx2cr5C17ortG5bePbDqDu139jEmhC1nU/w400-h300/romain-dancre-doplSDELX7E-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">All districts are supposed to have an</span> open enrollment<span style="font-family: inherit;"> process, and the only argument to not have one could conceivably be that there is only one school in the district or all their schools are overly enrolled, aka impacted, and will remain so. Most districts will have some space and will need to hold an open enrollment process. </span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The school open enrollment process usually happens at the end of the prior year or early in the calendar year when the transfer will apply (e.g. late 2021- early 2022 deadline for a move at the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year). Due dates for submissions vary by school district.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Certain priorities will apply. For example, o</span>pen enrollment cannot cause the displacement of residents who want to attend their school of residence. <span style="font-family: inherit;">After the residents of a school are placed, other students with priorities should be placed. Priorities can exist for siblings of a student already in attendance and/or as outlined in school district policies. If there end up being spaces and too many students vying for those spaces, an unbiased student lottery should occur.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><b><u><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Intradistrict Transfer</span></u></b></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">If open enrollment request time has passed, and a parent wants to transfer to another school in their district, they could pursue an intradistrict transfer. </span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZroAyvW0yhiztZpyMocT85LiUaVjJvuahCO_VX6bczUF_BRwKFUgJYIEO3UeqgLeO1ZjSD-XNfI2rQtI2iFB14xTZ0l1w915dfI2j0Rd1EfNBeq5k4HKhkyx99B0roNJz83X_dnPixo/s500/photo-1509062522246-3755977927d7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="311" data-original-width="500" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnZroAyvW0yhiztZpyMocT85LiUaVjJvuahCO_VX6bczUF_BRwKFUgJYIEO3UeqgLeO1ZjSD-XNfI2rQtI2iFB14xTZ0l1w915dfI2j0Rd1EfNBeq5k4HKhkyx99B0roNJz83X_dnPixo/w400-h249/photo-1509062522246-3755977927d7.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">What is an intradistrict transfer? It is a transfer to another school WITHIN the same school district. This is different from an interdistrict transfer, which is between two different school districts. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There may be deadlines to apply for intradistrict transfers, but </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">many districts may accept requests outside the timelines as well, depending on the reasons for the request. If the regular timeline can be met, that is a good idea.</span></span></p><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The rules related to these transfers will be outlined in school board policies, usually found on most school district websites under a tab titled "School Board" or "Board of Education," or by contacting the school district office. There may be a place on a school district website referencing intradistrict transfers and requirements to obtain one.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Most districts outline certain parameters for the granting of intradistrict transfer requests such as the new school having a program not at the school of residence, the school where the student resides being persistently dangerous, a court order, bullying, or the mental health of the student, among other possible bases. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Other Ways To Transfer</b></u></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Students who are in special education may be transferred without ever applying via this process, if their IEP (Individualized Educational Program) team places them due to services needed at a particular school.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sometimes an involuntary intradistrict transfer may be imposed on a student who has committed a harmful act and/or agreed to by their parent to avoid a school expulsion.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Best,</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a><span style="color: black;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-50644491436178176652021-02-10T16:59:00.000-08:002021-02-10T16:59:34.923-08:00How Long Can A School Expulsion Go? Q & A<p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Many times when a public school student faces expulsion, there is confusion about what this means and how long an expulsion may continue. Some questions and answers relevant to the length of expulsions in the<b> public school setting</b>, (high school or below) may be helpful to parents.</span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b>Is expulsion permanent? </b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">No. There is always a listed end date in the expulsion decision.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b>When can a student return to school after they are expelled?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">That depends on the length and type of expulsion imposed, with the maximum time limited by state law.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwdd13JiQw_ILvgeo89EUhZDy7m1OqqQ0kaWA8LN-7Ywg-J6GmiWFAU84fpqnKEY2DL2JRwOkul7yOn0hc3KMX6hs0EiF4fqYglktbpZTS3nzo9w9QAKJsydsUDFxYGyJm_auitezGTs/s1920/person-731165_1920.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHwdd13JiQw_ILvgeo89EUhZDy7m1OqqQ0kaWA8LN-7Ywg-J6GmiWFAU84fpqnKEY2DL2JRwOkul7yOn0hc3KMX6hs0EiF4fqYglktbpZTS3nzo9w9QAKJsydsUDFxYGyJm_auitezGTs/w640-h426/person-731165_1920.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">How long can a public school expulsion be? </span></b></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Maximum 1 year for the most heinous situations, such as selling drugs, firearm issues, sexual assault or battery, brandishing a knife and explosives (<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48915&lawCode=EDC">Cal Ed Code 48915(c)</a>), sometimes called the <b>"Big 5 Offenses."</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b>Can a public school expulsion continue beyond the expulsion time period in the expulsion decision?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Yes. Although the initial expulsion can only go a maximum 1 year for the worst offenses, like drug sales, if a student does not meet readmission (aka rehabilitation) terms when attempting to reenroll, the student may not be readmitted and their exclusion may continue.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b>What is the maximum length of expulsion for offenses that are not "Big 5 Offenses?"</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Two semesters, starting when the board of education issues their decision, and sometimes starting the semester when the offense occurred. Examples of school offenses carrying a two semester maximum term include drug possession, sexual harassment, fighting, stealing or theft, damaging school property, threats, extortion, habitual profanity, bullying, receiving stolen school or private property, possession of an imitation firearm, hazing, aiding and abetting (helping) another student to commit great bodily injury, and other offenses. (<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.&lawCode=EDC">Cal Ed. Code 48900-15</a>).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyBtkitHxSREORrgnv2_KOrNf1oj8NXyWk-GANHdWlBbl2-UEq8D-Tbk_NXaVLpHrb_RU5S4f1HrHfgfkJ5I0tKyToGw2EO3liiNgnfHHVjY3OdzME0DgHjoZ9t3GTozc21JSDunNm24/s1920/gossip-532012_1920.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1343" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyBtkitHxSREORrgnv2_KOrNf1oj8NXyWk-GANHdWlBbl2-UEq8D-Tbk_NXaVLpHrb_RU5S4f1HrHfgfkJ5I0tKyToGw2EO3liiNgnfHHVjY3OdzME0DgHjoZ9t3GTozc21JSDunNm24/s320/gossip-532012_1920.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b>What is the minimum term of expulsion if a student is found guilty?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">One semester, unless the board decides to issue a lesser punishment, such as a behavior contract.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><b>Does the board of education have to expel a student?</b></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Per state law, not unless it is a proven "Big 5 Offense." Otherwise, they have discretion to offer alternative punishments as the circumstances warrant.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Best,</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-25717462796143862052021-02-09T13:34:00.000-08:002021-02-09T13:34:14.270-08:00Twelve Tips To Winning School and College Disputes<p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>Most parents see schools as places where their kids go daily, while they are at work or taking care of other household needs, and forget about them. College students may view their universities as a large mass of buildings and detached college staff and instructors. Students and parents may be shocked and confused when a problem arises at a school or college and may not know what to do. </o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><u><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">THE BASICS OF APPROACHING A SCHOOL OR COLLEGE PROBLEM</span></b></u></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>There are some fundamental recommendations I have when it comes to dealing with schools and getting desired outcomes for students. These should generally apply to many issues that come up, from school discipline, expulsion, and suspensions, to special education, IEP (Individualized Education Program) or 504 matters, college hearings, sports eligibility, student targeting by teachers or professors, grade appeals, and many other matters being encountered by students in day to day life.</o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhbsKjzsK7jo4pj1V-aiA2HjKJU8V0HJaqKpot7WomIDAcOh9F6td1g1PBIBE33pG26JUhbJhhk8U7pqzsb1yWFDiGt_d_zEz7tppXGxMgbZJ-WiuYDIjVjXFX-yojIDGx8yBxs9DWHY/s1920/chess-2730034_1920.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1079" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhbsKjzsK7jo4pj1V-aiA2HjKJU8V0HJaqKpot7WomIDAcOh9F6td1g1PBIBE33pG26JUhbJhhk8U7pqzsb1yWFDiGt_d_zEz7tppXGxMgbZJ-WiuYDIjVjXFX-yojIDGx8yBxs9DWHY/w400-h225/chess-2730034_1920.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>1) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u> Know the rules</u>: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> When you run into a problem in a school or college, find the rules which apply to the situation. These may be found in the school handbook, on the website, in program handbooks (e.g. a "Handbook for the Nursing Program"), and in many other places. Boards of education also issue policies which are online, usually under the "Board" section of a school district website. For the UC Regents, there are rules that apply to all UCs found usually on the relevant <a href="https://regents.universityofcalifornia.edu/governance/index.html">Regents page</a>, or on the specific college website. Find any and all policies and rules related to the student issue. Read them, clear up any misunderstood words or concepts in the policies/rules and truly understand them.</span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Gather Information Specific To The Student</u>: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> One of the first things I do in matters is to request student records. For students pre-college, parents can submit a request for the student's files and all evidence that may relate to any pending matter. For college students, a similar request may be filed. Timelines are usually <a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=49069.7.&lawCode=EDC">5 business days</a> for public schools (before college), and maximum 45 days under <a href="https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html">FERPA (Family Education Rights And Privacy Act)</a>. Some colleges bind themselves to shorter time periods for production which can be discovered when researching relevant school policies. For private entities, if they take federal funds, they usually are bound to federal laws on production.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSjpissd5V2ppo8W8t6OlmwVrRvePaZ8CwQzhfv4hcG5aB-UkfhNDNQG_hwUa1o-iF2zoKJFU6A0KrZnWABcf5AVPmWDbEg-1_AgkT5TAXzuR2s-I_EPlXkoKqeraWsmeCKifiVqjsLQ/s1280/checklist-1266989_1280.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="884" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfSjpissd5V2ppo8W8t6OlmwVrRvePaZ8CwQzhfv4hcG5aB-UkfhNDNQG_hwUa1o-iF2zoKJFU6A0KrZnWABcf5AVPmWDbEg-1_AgkT5TAXzuR2s-I_EPlXkoKqeraWsmeCKifiVqjsLQ/s320/checklist-1266989_1280.png" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p>3) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Write A Timeline</u>: </span></b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> Another important component to really understanding a matter and later communicating with a school or college about it is a timeline. Does the student really know what happened when, and who was involved? Get it on paper so it is clear.</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Gather Support</u>:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Does the student have documents that relate to the matter at hand, or texts, or pictures, etc.? All documents should be gathered together and connected to the timeline. If evidence may be online, printing it out and downloading a copy can be very worthwhile as I have seen schools change websites and remove documents after they found out they were at issue. If a screenshot or copy of critical evidence was not downloaded or printed, the proof can vanish. </span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If you have witnesses, depending on the situation, they can potentially be contacted.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><u>CAUTION</u>: There are times, particularly in discipline matters, when an accused student should not contact potential witnesses as this could be misinterpreted as witness intimidation, so be cautious in contacting potential witnesses. Minor witnesses should only be contacted through their parents, if at all.</o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>5) <b><u> Put Appropriate Things In Writing</u>: </b> It is easy to cold call a school official and blab about a matter, and that may be necessary, but it is also important to put a competent communication together in writing which outlines the situation and the student's position. This is an important </o:p></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">component to ensuring </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">that points are</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirq3fE0BZtEXZWhUHqhltlyM3ccFXvV20hoXIu2biL155YPfamCat2l52Ap7UoD3VaC9KYm1tRP2yYLyOOZZPYVkbGBzGbK9_bI-_5Zze904NS4yyRYh8_gT8ZhPhXCwj1dPAi9dkg2Wc/s1920/board-1106649_1920.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirq3fE0BZtEXZWhUHqhltlyM3ccFXvV20hoXIu2biL155YPfamCat2l52Ap7UoD3VaC9KYm1tRP2yYLyOOZZPYVkbGBzGbK9_bI-_5Zze904NS4yyRYh8_gT8ZhPhXCwj1dPAi9dkg2Wc/w400-h266/board-1106649_1920.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">not just forgotten, such as on a phone call where no one takes notes. What is the truth about the situation, what do the school or college's own rules say about it, and what data supports the thing being sought? It can be a double-edged sword, however, as putting things in writing can be negative if letters are full of threats or wild allegations and can cause problems. As such, it is key to write the letter objectively and factually, and to remove as much emotion as possible. If the author cannot write it in an effective way, they may need to get help from someone they trust to ghost write it. </span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u style="font-family: inherit;">CAUTION</u><span style="font-family: inherit;">: If an accused student puts things in writing, whatever is written could be seen as a form of "admission," so accused students need to be hyper-cautious lest any documents be pulled out and used against them as testimony</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nPdlMyotim-FMDk6y50ICE1-zSj60KPQlLdnZbqZ_t1SE21LH4WS0jynDMq9nWKgca8KP6rNyV26cngjb-ArehQr22WHqD9LityzgLuBWm4SbWaZUUjMsp7-HpST_Gi9FsJjAI9FpyA/s1280/peace-2789710_1280.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nPdlMyotim-FMDk6y50ICE1-zSj60KPQlLdnZbqZ_t1SE21LH4WS0jynDMq9nWKgca8KP6rNyV26cngjb-ArehQr22WHqD9LityzgLuBWm4SbWaZUUjMsp7-HpST_Gi9FsJjAI9FpyA/s320/peace-2789710_1280.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">6) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Make Personal Contact With School Officials</u>: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">This can be necessary if a student wants to achieve their goal and it cannot be achieved via written communication alone. Again, an accused student, such as in a suspension or expulsion matter, will want to carefully consider how this is approached so it does not harm their matter. It will depend on the situation. Many times meeting with one school official, then maybe another, will be necessary to try to achieve a goal.</span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">7) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Filings</u>: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Is there an official process if personal contact does not work? If so, it should be considered. There may also be an outside agency which could be contacted to file something (sometimes students have only one option- the outside agency or the school). Students need to determine the internal and external processes available and their likelihood of success in either one.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">8) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Rally Support</u>:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Some students or parents think getting a bunch of protestors outside a school can help, or getting on the news will somehow intimidate the school or college. I do not turn to the media for leverage, as I find that they usually have their story already written before they talk to me- and who knows if that will go against my client's position or not? Once media is allowed in, sometimes the lines can get blurry on what can be printed/not printed online or otherwise. </span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">As far as a group of supporters: groups can be effective if they are a cohesive group of students or parents with strong positions individually (for example, they or their child were also wronged).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglInXcNkUVH_z4d-o3dKblEP0t2ac5ZC0bml0X0chETWnoybpc8UfZ2Q9899kTHUv62MMUV5Tv5ndugwrVqPAsP8pfAGBAlK_txwk9j9Ks4G4lpQt4zQ91GXPfAa1eR1xJSIAPQaCSY5k/s1920/light-bulb-2010022_1920.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglInXcNkUVH_z4d-o3dKblEP0t2ac5ZC0bml0X0chETWnoybpc8UfZ2Q9899kTHUv62MMUV5Tv5ndugwrVqPAsP8pfAGBAlK_txwk9j9Ks4G4lpQt4zQ91GXPfAa1eR1xJSIAPQaCSY5k/w400-h266/light-bulb-2010022_1920.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">9) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Be Smart</u>:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> With any school issue, be it appealing a grade, or opposing an expulsion, it is important to be professional and act intelligently. School administrators judge us on how we act, so students and parents should be thorough, well versed and professional in all communications, and keep emotion to a minimum. Help school administrators focus on the facts by keeping it clear, concise, by presenting documented support and communicating in a way they can accept. </span></p></span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">10) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Know Your Audience</u></b><span style="font-family: inherit;">: Realize who you are talking to, bureaucrats and people generally unmotivated personally by any threatened loss. It is not usually the school administrator's house at risk if a student is wronged. School and college officials are </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcQnUygtQ_Kp8kIJbYD8DpJWcKEY6Pwq36XOuO_nkKTkbfNPDavcbUKGAh5Vy8QLs9ZSokOVN6PKek2EjHMDdWtah1YuJPeq37Llfb-B5PLp5_xKS4QitFN6D326TOvWOlNurcwmgq2A/s1280/vote-146962_1280.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcQnUygtQ_Kp8kIJbYD8DpJWcKEY6Pwq36XOuO_nkKTkbfNPDavcbUKGAh5Vy8QLs9ZSokOVN6PKek2EjHMDdWtah1YuJPeq37Llfb-B5PLp5_xKS4QitFN6D326TOvWOlNurcwmgq2A/s320/vote-146962_1280.png" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">not like other retail establishments who care about their clientele returning. There is a high demand for their services and with public schools, students are often stuck in their school of residence. As such, although administrators may not want issues, they have less motivation to resolve them than the average grocery store, as they have so much power over students. This sometimes results in administrators talking down to students or parents. Triumph over this by thoroughly knowing your position and any leverage you may have.</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">11) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Be Persuasive</u>: </b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Persuasion is key, and this may be seen in communications that outline the situation in a way that leads the reader (e.g. school administrator) to the student's side. Persuasive writing is somewhat of an art, but essentially if an administrator can imagine themselves as the student and get into that viewpoint, they may move toward helping that student if possible. Effective communication and persuasion are critical.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYwGl4xQ2sw_xQ5eJUvNFqQ9yup2NL51DLtUiIxCUPMtUiZPghrC5zBukVjB9YcQ3gACtMXKbeEuQeXH-rlqTvtyj-djQsSL7qdOcfJD8rQBSvLJXknm65tAa1eX2lhBAl1p0b19T_vs/s1920/wallpaper-4839630_1920.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1279" data-original-width="1920" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYwGl4xQ2sw_xQ5eJUvNFqQ9yup2NL51DLtUiIxCUPMtUiZPghrC5zBukVjB9YcQ3gACtMXKbeEuQeXH-rlqTvtyj-djQsSL7qdOcfJD8rQBSvLJXknm65tAa1eX2lhBAl1p0b19T_vs/w400-h266/wallpaper-4839630_1920.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">12) </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Present Solutions That Meet Both Sides Needs</u>:</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> To reach a resolution, it is important that whatever outcome a student or parent requests, it is made "easy" for the school to provide that outcome. For example, you are not asking for them to buy a $200,000 schoolbus to get your kid home, but are only asking for a daily taxi ride, due to issues with the special education bus. What could you and they both accept which solves the problem? Be creative and communicate ideas which both sides could be happy with in the end, and which are possible. Many parents don't even have an idea of what they want or don't tell the school what will satisfy them, so it is a step-up for a parent or student to tell the school or college staff their goals so they can try to reach them collaboratively.</span></p></span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Almost any school matter can be approached with these steps which can effectively educate the student, parent, and school, and help students win their disputes by reaching resolutions that work in the school or college setting.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span>Website</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>Blog</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span>Twitter</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span>Youtube</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span>Facebook</span></a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a><span style="color: black;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-80249919024071831512021-02-02T16:12:00.002-08:002021-02-02T16:13:20.103-08:00How To File An Office For Civil Rights Complaint Which Will Actually Get Investigated<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> <i><span>By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>If a student has faced discrimination in their school or college, they or their parent may want to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to get their school investigated and corrected. Simple.</o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>Not so fast. </o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><a href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html">Its simple to file</a>, but not always simple to get a filing accepted by OCR, such that they actually investigate the school or college. OCR does not take every complaint that floats their way. Instead, initial submissions, to be accepted, must clearly lay out a true case of discrimination or retaliation. Otherwise, an OCR filing may be rejected and the school issues unresolved.</o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFV_upIhOdIk_iMG3w9zCAMluziFJn3Gnq4hxgb46e7CPoa9GkMgqNVkYYU1pp5_QAQwiQc-eW8EAmYQIu8VhaXMZ942e4duGhoEHjNGk78ukEpJyQ5Zp6CsAawYYKhWdaBuKT0mKrLw/s1920/girl-1345800_1920.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFV_upIhOdIk_iMG3w9zCAMluziFJn3Gnq4hxgb46e7CPoa9GkMgqNVkYYU1pp5_QAQwiQc-eW8EAmYQIu8VhaXMZ942e4duGhoEHjNGk78ukEpJyQ5Zp6CsAawYYKhWdaBuKT0mKrLw/w400-h268/girl-1345800_1920.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span><br /></span></p>When preparing to file an OCR discrimination claim, parents and students need to think like lawyers. What does this mean? Well, what do lawyers gather to prove their cases? Statements or summaries from witnesses, documents proving the facts of what occurred, reports, and/or anything that legitimately shows clear evidence of wrongdoing.</span><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">A very good timeline and description of the facts, without a lot of emotion or guessing, is important for OCR to understand what the parent or student believes is occurring. This summary should describe what happened, who is believed to have done what, and specifics, such as the time, date, location, and people alleged to have been involved. </span><span>This summary can be attached to or inserted into the initial OCR complaint form.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">A parent or student also needs to attach all evidence they gathered proving what occurred. Do they have email from a teacher showing discrimination is going on, or a picture that was legally taken, or a report card that shows the issues? Do they have letters to the school, texts with details, or even letters or statements from witnesses? If so, these should be forwarded with the initial complaint if possible.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiN_saAbltTA3tSoujUgNsLLDjB4eKr35nRU9RPbjevl1w2Ry1F6GwJuOM8oSZjQB8tGZ2EanK83HTDq_58SkBPzlnsEqQeFuy-kt5x-GVrvQftxr4xF-OJn8GWwmLXv-_WFhP3NZOVo/s1280/files-1614223_1280.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsiN_saAbltTA3tSoujUgNsLLDjB4eKr35nRU9RPbjevl1w2Ry1F6GwJuOM8oSZjQB8tGZ2EanK83HTDq_58SkBPzlnsEqQeFuy-kt5x-GVrvQftxr4xF-OJn8GWwmLXv-_WFhP3NZOVo/s320/files-1614223_1280.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">An example of a poor statement could be:</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">"My son was discriminated against by X school on the playground." [not so good]</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">versus</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">"On February 1, 2021, my son was with a group of boys at X school during lunch, who all stole money together and none of them have past discipline incidents. My son has ADHD and is in special education and the other four boys are not. My son is the only boy who was suspended and the Principal called him a "waste of special education money" when he suspended him, which was witnessed by the school secretary Madge who emailed me (see attached email, suspension form, and my son's summary of what happened written immediately afterwards). Last month the lady in the lunch room told my son she hated special ed kids and put him at the end of the lunch line" [much better]</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">It is clear when reviewing the two versions of the same situation, that one is more convincing than the other, as it has specific facts and documents backing the claims attached. This is the way to approach an OCR filing to try to get them to pick it up and investigate the discriminating school or college.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">So get gathering the facts and proof and get filing. Schools don't want to hear from OCR, as OCR can make their lives difficult and can even cut funding. If enough students and parents filed discrimination claims, schools and colleges would change for the better and all students would face a more tolerant environment in the future.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span>Website</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>Blog</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span>Twitter</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span>Youtube</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span>Facebook</span></a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></p></div>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-91115137062788637092021-01-14T14:59:00.001-08:002021-01-14T15:04:08.604-08:00College Professor Targeting Of Students- What Can A Student Do?<p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Colleges can be tricky places to navigate. They are especially tricky when a student encounters a professor who acts in inappropriate ways toward them. Students often won't take action as they believe they may face retaliation or a failing grade if they complain, and unfortunately, they might. But, if students don't do something, the college professor may continue with their harassing or wrongful conduct and even push the student out. It is a tough spot.</span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIQbwPMQRihLtBALJECworm9GWLg_WrekKUtUZkL1WxLUcUnIZUBKb8l-x4yRi6zk1zifjT1nXrIZBV_PwUEMhfXr1PuUSR-_P8rYmIcwuRgrRoBK_GLZOSNgmo94qIiyjcFfaVm_YGc/s2048/pexels-gratisography-455.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIQbwPMQRihLtBALJECworm9GWLg_WrekKUtUZkL1WxLUcUnIZUBKb8l-x4yRi6zk1zifjT1nXrIZBV_PwUEMhfXr1PuUSR-_P8rYmIcwuRgrRoBK_GLZOSNgmo94qIiyjcFfaVm_YGc/w400-h266/pexels-gratisography-455.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Some examples I have seen, many during college clinical or internship placements, which seem almost ridiculous when reviewed, but are true:</span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">〰A nursing student raises their hand and points out a difference between what the professor is saying and the textbook explanation. The professor thereafter targets the student and starts lowering their grades on papers and other assignments, which means the student is in danger of failing.</span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">〰<span style="color: black;"><o:p>A student contradicts a professor's assertion about them and the professor thereafter investigates them by interviewing multiple individuals to justify getting them kicked out of their major/school.</o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">〰<span style="color: black;"><o:p>A professor does not like a student's political statements in class and later falsely accuses the student of recording and posting him on line, and subjecting the professor to ridicule. The student never recorded anything but is then referred for discipline.</o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">〰<span style="color: black;"><o:p>A professor does not like an older student who will not just take everything the professor says as gospel, and the student is thereafter monitored and written up on every possible occasion.</o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">〰<span style="color: black;"><o:p>A professor fails to implement a disabled student's accommodations, which leads to a bad grade and termination from the program.</o:p></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4j_S7XAITNGqiB-ysXcjrV5SyeCkvhvrk4HuDlxMp2O1MHl1Bq8GRbao96Cl1lmtXTSdkMDMDHUW7Mh_ozCNiLuE2JV3El3j5igS7oVPySOQ5zJKGIQRdMzdX9SAxAc5YBW4GH_olrs/s946/pexels-max-fischer-5212347.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="946" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4j_S7XAITNGqiB-ysXcjrV5SyeCkvhvrk4HuDlxMp2O1MHl1Bq8GRbao96Cl1lmtXTSdkMDMDHUW7Mh_ozCNiLuE2JV3El3j5igS7oVPySOQ5zJKGIQRdMzdX9SAxAc5YBW4GH_olrs/w271-h400/pexels-max-fischer-5212347.jpg" width="271" /></a></span></div><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">I usually find out about such student abuse when the student fails their course, finds out they are placed on remediation, is kicked out, or can just smell that something bad is about to happen. </span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Here are some potential out-of-court actions which could potentially help or protect the student:</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">1) Start a good and detailed timeline with actual dates, details and any proof. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">2) File a grade appeal (if relevant) with the college.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">3) File a grievance/complaint against the professor with the college or university for wrongful conduct if there is enough proof.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">4) File a claim with the <a href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html">United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR)</a> for discrimination/retaliation OR</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">4a) A claim could also be filed with the University for discrimination/retaliation, but students generally only get one shot to allege discrimination via administrative processes (depending)- and have to decide who they think would address the matter more fairly- their college, or the Office for Civil Rights.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">5) Elicit help from the college's student disability office (if relevant).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">6) Bring witnesses if possible when speaking with the professor or university staff about the professor so they cannot allege inappropriate conduct by the student.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">7) Document everything. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">8) Appeal any college discipline or other negative outcome and bring up the improper conduct by the professor.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">9) Encourage others to file complaints on the professor, as if no one files them, the college is not on notice of issues. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">10) Try not to do anything to exacerbate the situation!</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_VZC6tuuaphtJ8SNyAxRKEXtRaFnWE6U7hGjXCwNELI47C0hZmrIq3KhT5HHNqJgkuwMZM_DGmS2nw4eKTeXJktZLBgNjBMNbR2EXvQn8O0j92xGBZ743vYM9kSgm4paQp9KmSISmzA/s640/pexels-andrea-piacquadio-3769714.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="640" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_VZC6tuuaphtJ8SNyAxRKEXtRaFnWE6U7hGjXCwNELI47C0hZmrIq3KhT5HHNqJgkuwMZM_DGmS2nw4eKTeXJktZLBgNjBMNbR2EXvQn8O0j92xGBZ743vYM9kSgm4paQp9KmSISmzA/w400-h248/pexels-andrea-piacquadio-3769714.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Some college professors are very used to being the most important person in the room and I think this can go to their heads. They may not be used to being challenged or even questioned, and can react negatively afterward. They also tend to be hard to challenge as grading in many areas is so subjective and they can often defend their sly lowering of grades by saying that was their opinion. As such, students need to start protecting themselves when they even slightly smell a rat as that rat can bite and negatively impact their future graduation and career.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-79268307067511143172020-11-19T16:42:00.000-08:002020-11-19T16:42:57.993-08:00Readmission To Public School After Expulsion<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995 <o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">School expulsion is traumatizing and awful. Once the worst happens and an expulsion is imposed, do students just get automatic reentry into their local school when the time period is over? How do they return? Are there steps? The terms of the expulsion determine what will happen and precisely what the student must do to reenter their local school campus.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fcmZA3g991li56EzeDrUOuKaWQG2PJbr2xIdise-6zEmEHI3lrZxWnC2dg3EjgFo9cSufkaE4PqOrleFBLxW2Nsa2sSLQXeL5NfvzY-v0nTxBUpRIp8LGxlRc0pW_nGh7Oq40Ruo1rs/s640/scott-graham-OQMZwNd3ThU-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fcmZA3g991li56EzeDrUOuKaWQG2PJbr2xIdise-6zEmEHI3lrZxWnC2dg3EjgFo9cSufkaE4PqOrleFBLxW2Nsa2sSLQXeL5NfvzY-v0nTxBUpRIp8LGxlRc0pW_nGh7Oq40Ruo1rs/s320/scott-graham-OQMZwNd3ThU-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Students are expelled by their b</span><span style="font-size: x-large;">oard of education after </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">a hearing or after the student's parents sign an agreement, usually called a "stipulated (agreed) expulsion." After expulsion, returning to a comprehensive (regular) school environment will depend on the terms of that expulsion and the student's compliance with the agreement's mandates.</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">When a school board imposes a school expulsion, usually there are terms that a student must meet, which are outlined in a "Rehabilitation Plan." This student rehabilitation plan contains prerequisites the student must complete before the expulsion will end and the student may be returned to regular school. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48916."></a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQp8tsEfwabBxpKFSBJldE5uEBOn_BO8vQTMO1kJpX_AEWydhBzMkGEciBL4S71zhsptDjPamgDFuBcz5eigOGaUO6L0yrlxL2V8cRijrdDaSae-SSwBRoQhieBy6dhSeIYsw6tm-4e08/s2048/AdobeStock_140007882.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQp8tsEfwabBxpKFSBJldE5uEBOn_BO8vQTMO1kJpX_AEWydhBzMkGEciBL4S71zhsptDjPamgDFuBcz5eigOGaUO6L0yrlxL2V8cRijrdDaSae-SSwBRoQhieBy6dhSeIYsw6tm-4e08/w362-h241/AdobeStock_140007882.jpeg" width="362" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Code section 48916, discusses rehabilitation plans for students being expelled:</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(b) The governing board shall recommend a plan of rehabilitation for the pupil at the time of the expulsion order, which may include, but not be limited to, periodic review as well as assessment at the time of review for readmission. The plan may also include recommendations for improved academic performance, tutoring, special education assessments, job training, counseling, employment, community service, or other rehabilitative programs.</span></i></p><p style="background-color: border-width: 0px; clear: both; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><p style="background-color: border-width: 0px; clear: both; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><p style="border-width: 0px; display: inline; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></p></span></i><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: border-width: 0px; display: inline; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(c) The governing board of each school district shall adopt rules and regulations establishing a procedure for the filing and processing of requests for readmission and the process for the required review of all expelled pupils for readmission. Upon completion of the readmission process, the governing board shall readmit the pupil, unless the governing board makes a finding that the pupil has not met the conditions of the rehabilitation plan or continues to pose a danger to campus safety or to other pupils or employees of the school district. A description of the procedure shall be made available to the pupil and the pupil’s parent or guardian at the time the expulsion order is entered.</span></i></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Section 48916 requires a student's readmission if the terms are met and the student is no longer a danger to the campus, pupils or employees.</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJsTnlH8FWy5lUl60gYxhyphenhyphenHWoNpeh3Nvc1uONqjMmFS_zM-Wt3ViCoIGqLy9wp-QZNDLdzcTBZaRNz1GToCLea1FTN-r_bdCS0ze8bFdmWC4euUlaNwGUqYT63OlgZy3O3hGWw6zwNz4/s2048/AdobeStock_323653659.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJsTnlH8FWy5lUl60gYxhyphenhyphenHWoNpeh3Nvc1uONqjMmFS_zM-Wt3ViCoIGqLy9wp-QZNDLdzcTBZaRNz1GToCLea1FTN-r_bdCS0ze8bFdmWC4euUlaNwGUqYT63OlgZy3O3hGWw6zwNz4/s320/AdobeStock_323653659.jpeg" /></a></div>Typical terms seen in student expulsion agreements include the following:</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">1) Maintain passing grades or maintain above a 2.0 or other gpa (grade point average)</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">2) Attend school regularly, or maintain 95% (or other %) attendance</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">3) Therapy for some number of hours or until a certain program is completed. Parents may be able to get approval for religious/pastoral counseling to meet this requirement.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">4) No breach of school rules or federal, state, or local laws</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">5) No additional suspensions/expulsions (broad or limited scope)</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">6) Community service for a certain number of hours at an approved nonprofit</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">7) Stay off all district properties, not coming within a certain distance </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWWJ2ZcDe3hTf31LX9qfVI4w6of99diHP1pAqgRi0-TT382cfX3kaQzoKHsyBRNlmNUadg-Ib8PnLunBdF36sSE9gcrReu32FHmYOpxH3PDknI2MtA57Pt71-GmXTaJDYe-lMm768SS8w/s2048/AdobeStock_316012093.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWWJ2ZcDe3hTf31LX9qfVI4w6of99diHP1pAqgRi0-TT382cfX3kaQzoKHsyBRNlmNUadg-Ib8PnLunBdF36sSE9gcrReu32FHmYOpxH3PDknI2MtA57Pt71-GmXTaJDYe-lMm768SS8w/w640-h426/AdobeStock_316012093.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sometimes, schools include other terms, depending on the offense, such as:</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">8) Drug test results must be negative</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">9) Student must do essay or some type of project</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">10) </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Letter from professional stating student is not a danger and/or should be readmitted.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">11) Other terms as varied as the school districts</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">When the student's expulsion time period is nearing the end </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">(date should be in the agreement)</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">, the student may petition for readmission. The district will require submission of actual evidence the terms in the expulsion order </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">were met</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">, and will make their own determination whether the student poses a danger should the student return to campus. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If readmitted, unless the expulsion agreement names the school the student can return to, the school will usually be determined at the readmission meeting. Sometimes expulsion agreements, particularly for drug sales or high level offenses, state that the student will never return to the prior school.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfEmbbkmtGlHuPGUjxg3Xmzdw2QYoYc4Ty6lHiVzyv4oV45aolZhv67L7pxpv0kaZNLtCuCJ2-ia36LwpLAe1rDTSzWjWzaKAi7rqGQfIYG7GZVOuCJifm5JbhGxvhdFyVACykLEwiaY/s2048/AdobeStock_383185129.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNfEmbbkmtGlHuPGUjxg3Xmzdw2QYoYc4Ty6lHiVzyv4oV45aolZhv67L7pxpv0kaZNLtCuCJ2-ia36LwpLAe1rDTSzWjWzaKAi7rqGQfIYG7GZVOuCJifm5JbhGxvhdFyVACykLEwiaY/w400-h266/AdobeStock_383185129.jpeg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Because proof will need to be submitted to get a student back into his district after an expulsion, it is important that parents develop and maintain the records showing the student met the terms. For example, a student needing to participate in a counseling program cannot just start gathering proof of this the week before the readmission review meeting. Rather, they need to work on this during the expulsion period, perhaps for months, until complete.</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If a student does not meet the terms of the expulsion, the consequence is that the expulsion continues. This can mean a one semester expulsion can continue for many years, simply as the rehabilitation requirements were not met. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">As such, parents need to pay attention to the expulsion order and all requirements and ensure they are not neglected. Otherwise, the student may never return and can end up with a multi-year expulsion in their student records.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br />
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span>Website</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>Blog</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span>Twitter</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span>Youtube</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span>Facebook</span></a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-26735123538897004382020-11-16T18:28:00.002-08:002020-11-17T10:47:41.124-08:00Possession of Nicotine or Tobacco As Basis For School Discipline <p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since 1995</span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Talk to many in our culture today about nicotine products and the public schools and you may hear: "</span><i style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">So what, the kid's smoking, isn't that something every teen does?" </i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Not really, and if they do, it should not be at school or involving school. Tobacco or similar products cannot be stashed for a friend, thrown in a backpack to use later, chewed, smoked, or otherwise used at school, at school events, going to or coming from school, etc. If they are, and the student is caught, the student can be suspended or even expelled.</span></p><p></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcBa-euM0nUqwXPveBvo-Zhz5Mepz4dCd-NC_BO9UP7dd25khojJczXdzYkT6UcVjjLSOtyh8kepKwPq6sFQXeetNn3pU3IvBVb1jYso0-JzXyyXHtjDpwM_8zxrimzqD-3zJDlmYJHY/s640/quinten-de-graaf-4TcUM4qz9Dc-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWcBa-euM0nUqwXPveBvo-Zhz5Mepz4dCd-NC_BO9UP7dd25khojJczXdzYkT6UcVjjLSOtyh8kepKwPq6sFQXeetNn3pU3IvBVb1jYso0-JzXyyXHtjDpwM_8zxrimzqD-3zJDlmYJHY/s320/quinten-de-graaf-4TcUM4qz9Dc-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Per the California Education Code, which outlines all bases for suspension and expulsion of students, one basis for discipline is:</span><p></p><p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: color: #333333;">A pupil shall not be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion, unless the superintendent of the school district or the principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has</span><span style="background-color: color: #333333;">...</span></span></i></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #333333;"><i>(h) Possessed or used tobacco, or products containing tobacco or nicotine products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel*.</i></span><span style="background-color: color: #333333;"> [<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.&lawCode=EDC">Education Code section 48900(h)</a>]</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowRmsQHTDtgPgAzV5bHyW07XF2WQnGocLsC2P-cFWsPUVaAolNl16ZaJ_f3St-u0OO8lOplC3bT7KNwMxb44dDY52jCRDL2euf_wpfuzRGkld8B3j1HCrTANY1xjDK9_2Wl-kGYh3Y0A/s640/cdc-3_OGgbdPIdA-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhowRmsQHTDtgPgAzV5bHyW07XF2WQnGocLsC2P-cFWsPUVaAolNl16ZaJ_f3St-u0OO8lOplC3bT7KNwMxb44dDY52jCRDL2euf_wpfuzRGkld8B3j1HCrTANY1xjDK9_2Wl-kGYh3Y0A/s320/cdc-3_OGgbdPIdA-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><p><span style="color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span>This code also encompasses e-cigarettes and vape pens, and all manner of things which may fit under the "nicotine" or nicotine-like umbrella. Note the code states that the list is not exclusive "including, but not limited to..." which means it is a wide-open code and will allow a school suspension for many products not listed.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The California legislature allows students to be removed from school and their records tarnished for simple possession or use of nicotine-type products. The kid in the back of a class with that bottle full of brown liquid (spit from chew products) can be in serious trouble. Or that kid with that "cool" vape pen could have his/her college entrance chances diminished if a suspension issues. </span></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxXawP4J_QUjmX5G5h8izYEH908m2TErGhsWs-HA8WyIDctJ4GVhmmxH78kzI-1G4NoWDQ9oayZ6KTSC-_lRXkl_l8WzhIt7MxQ_g7lcQPmRsX8gRtkK_EGwRein1Y4GqrpIfbjw3uVU/s640/mathew-macquarrie-lzcKZlVPYaU-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxXawP4J_QUjmX5G5h8izYEH908m2TErGhsWs-HA8WyIDctJ4GVhmmxH78kzI-1G4NoWDQ9oayZ6KTSC-_lRXkl_l8WzhIt7MxQ_g7lcQPmRsX8gRtkK_EGwRein1Y4GqrpIfbjw3uVU/s320/mathew-macquarrie-lzcKZlVPYaU-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If your child is up for suspension or expulsion for having a clove cigarette, some chew, or a vape pen, remember that alternatives to suspension should be attempted first if the offense is non-dangerous and is their first of the year (see <a href="https://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/2020/02/school-suspension-for-first-offense-is.html">Ed Code 48900.5</a>). </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Have you checked your kids' backpack or pockets today to ensure none of these prohibited items are lurking in there? If not, the next person who may tell you they are, could be the school Principal.</span></p><p>
</p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Best,<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a><span style="color: black;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>* Betel: "<span>an </span>Asian<span> </span>plant<span> that has </span>leaves<span> and </span><a class="query" href="https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/red" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; text-decoration-line: none;" title="red">red</a><span> </span>nuts<span> that </span>act<span> as a </span>drug<span> when </span><span class="nondv-xref dnondv-xref" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; box-sizing: border-box;">chewed" [per the<a href="https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/betel"> Cambridge Dictionary</a>]</span> </i></span></p><span face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.688px;"></span><p></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-55044888358348837532020-11-12T16:36:00.003-08:002020-11-17T10:45:28.033-08:00Filing A UC or CSU Discipline Appeal Within The College: Bases For Appeal<p><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p>College punishment can come swiftly and harshly, ending with a suspension or even an expulsion for minor activities. Even in the </o:p></span>University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) college systems, the discipline can be unfair and result in an unjust outcome. As such, a prompt internal (within the college itself) discipline appeal may be warranted, IF the college provides an appeal process.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcYl2KGhBzpH45a-nNK2mhbjF1ahIpijPjAtJahdWzLvLp18cGSF4Nb0ycx3WRVFAf0ZkSpSbYd53DZmG7dBHJ-sca8328FUg8M70E_eEom7V8QV8HhBYbwziOllJBmrYSRPTtHxRixA/s640/marie-bellando-mitjans-yL6CrMggt8g-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcYl2KGhBzpH45a-nNK2mhbjF1ahIpijPjAtJahdWzLvLp18cGSF4Nb0ycx3WRVFAf0ZkSpSbYd53DZmG7dBHJ-sca8328FUg8M70E_eEom7V8QV8HhBYbwziOllJBmrYSRPTtHxRixA/w400-h268/marie-bellando-mitjans-yL6CrMggt8g-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Regardless, in all cases, it is extremely critical that the student prepare well for and try to get the best outcome at their first discipline hearing, so they can potentially avoid an appeal. </span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If an appeal must be pursued, it will all depend on the exact college policy.</span></p><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">In the </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">UC and CSU</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> college </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">systems, overseen by the <a href="https://regents.universityofcalifornia.edu/">UC Board of </a></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://regents.universityofcalifornia.edu/">Regents</a> and the <a href="https://www2.calstate.edu/">California State University system</a>, respectively, </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">one would think that discipline policies would be uniform in all colleges under one body, such as all UCs or all CSUs. Not exactly.</span></p><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The UC system has a statewide policy, called <a href="https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/2710530/PACAOS-100">PACAOS</a> (Policies Applying to Campus Activities Organizations and Students) confirming there must be a campus discipline appeal process in place on college campuses, but what that process must include, is not defined. As such, bases for an internal appeal are set campus to campus and can vary greatly.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9U85S0PSLzFBotaO6hi1A9hO3jGwj4lmjS7VvfmAMc_dqI-l55QloFtINJ_W9nPO5RX-4Vsa-JzcwOiXehMVT2pSop-0FrNz01TqiyWyHXHbL5qdbC30s6iWV0MB9VQ3XmhVtSCulDI/s640/loic-furhoff-qeIaMQP_xQE-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="640" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz9U85S0PSLzFBotaO6hi1A9hO3jGwj4lmjS7VvfmAMc_dqI-l55QloFtINJ_W9nPO5RX-4Vsa-JzcwOiXehMVT2pSop-0FrNz01TqiyWyHXHbL5qdbC30s6iWV0MB9VQ3XmhVtSCulDI/w400-h268/loic-furhoff-qeIaMQP_xQE-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">For CSU, the state group has Executive Order 1098 (</span><a href="https://calstate.policystat.com/policy/8453518/latest/" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">EO 1098</a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">) which covers student discipline statewide, but which does not discuss a clear internal appeal right. Each CSU campus and their policies have to be consulted to determine what rights exist.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">CSUS (California State University Sacramento), <a href="https://www.csus.edu/umanual/student/stu-0119.htm">policy</a>, for example, mentions that:</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The student shall have the right of due process and appeal in matters of student discipline...</span></i></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">But, the appeal rights and bases are not delineated. CSUS also has an internal grievance process which allows students to appeal if they feel their rights were violated.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2SqvPrAUpl7pDQzS76TC9bQItWSMJ4C1PQ4l0nzy00Gu-KT05-MoiFPsIBQPzDyCDK9iz_tWV4MZL_s7Ark3WenbqH5mgrYsmd2u9MYarmv-eljuFTqvqIJtAdwWfjiCPIMvb9yaiuo/s640/philippe-bout-93W0xn4961g-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2SqvPrAUpl7pDQzS76TC9bQItWSMJ4C1PQ4l0nzy00Gu-KT05-MoiFPsIBQPzDyCDK9iz_tWV4MZL_s7Ark3WenbqH5mgrYsmd2u9MYarmv-eljuFTqvqIJtAdwWfjiCPIMvb9yaiuo/w320-h214/philippe-bout-93W0xn4961g-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">UC policies offer an internal appeal, but can vary on the bases, so it may be easiest to look at a few for comparison. </span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span>At University of California, Davis (UCD), the </span><a href="https://ossja.ucdavis.edu/disciplinary-process">policy</a><span> regarding the bases for filing a legitimate appeal with UCD state as follows:</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>A student... [</i>may<i>] file a written appeal of the decision, on one or more of the following grounds: </i></span></p><ol style="background-color: box-sizing: inherit; overflow: hidden;"><li style="box-sizing: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">there is no substantial basis in fact to support the findings;</span></i></span></li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">the sanction is inconsistent with the findings;</span></i></span></li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">there was unfairness in the proceedings;</span></i></span></li><li style="box-sizing: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">or there is newly discovered important evidence that was not available at the time of the hearing. </span></i></span></li></ol><p style="background-color: box-sizing: inherit; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">... An appeal may be denied, granted in whole or part, or other relief may be directed where appropriate. </span></i></span></p><br /><p></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vDvXY8RiPLGLUuBuUmQ8YxAf7zwQ_gpyEEvskTPxEJHOlE-5lBBSKmj03ue2eM1lhi7AYZVEVqQPAOOju30003wKXPnvKDXIUB5NXoXi0EgL6j2qntgWvAzxiRIUqwksl7-J6HqAee0/s896/wesley-tingey-9z9fxr_7Z-k-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; font-size: x-large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vDvXY8RiPLGLUuBuUmQ8YxAf7zwQ_gpyEEvskTPxEJHOlE-5lBBSKmj03ue2eM1lhi7AYZVEVqQPAOOju30003wKXPnvKDXIUB5NXoXi0EgL6j2qntgWvAzxiRIUqwksl7-J6HqAee0/w458-h640/wesley-tingey-9z9fxr_7Z-k-unsplash.jpg" width="458" /></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">The great thing about this policy, is that there are 4 potential areas for a UCD discipline appeal, including unfairness in the proceedings, a punishment that was way too harsh, and otherwise. Students may be able to overturn or reduce punishments lodging such an appeal. Nothing is mentioned in the UCD <a href="https://ossja.ucdavis.edu/student-conduct-and-discipline-policy#appeals">policies </a>about increasing the punishment if a student appeals.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">With UCLA, there is a different, much more restrictive <a href="https://www.deanofstudents.ucla.edu/portals/16/documents/UCLA%20Student%20Conduct%20Code%209-29-14%20final.pdf">policy for UCLA internal appeals</a>:</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">If the Dean imposes a sanction of Deferred Suspension, Deferred Dismissal, </span></i></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Suspension, or Dismissal, the Student may appeal the sanction, to the Vice Chancellor </span></i></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">of Student Affairs, on the grounds that the sanction assigned is substantially </span></i></span><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">disproportionate to the severity of the violation.</span></i></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>The UCLA policy limits students to appealing <b>only for disproportionate punishment</b>. It also includes this little gem, that the Vice Chancellor who receives the student's appeal:</o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span><span><span style="color: black; font-style: italic;"><o:p>...</o:p></span><span><i>may impose any one or more [</i>additional<i>] sanctions</i></span></span></span><i>, even though such decision may result in the imposition </i><span><i>of more </i></span><i>severe disciplinary action.</i></span></b></p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">This means that the appeal is not only a chance for justice and reduced punishment, but also for a harsher punishment. This is disturbing and likely stops many students from lodging an appeal.</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">UC Berkeley (UCB) has a different <a href="https://sa.berkeley.edu/student-code-of-conduct#Appeal_of_the_Hearing_Body_and_Dean_of_Students__Decisions">appeal policy</a>:</span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">An appeal must be based on newly discovered evidence that was not available at the time of the hearing, significant procedural error, or upon other evidence or arguments which, for good cause, should be considered.</span></span></i></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7M8qYPeNNGleajX5bKhw4uCQmhroQBGD_TxS44726jc1s1RErnCnaIxkgSqzeBqL719ObNvYm12n77ElwsOpkqIXeq3FIPlxxVUB2GrhihqOZKKF2BJrEPTnVAO3TWCjZOtyKcBcRor4/s640/antor-paul-xU2CytdJHJQ-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7M8qYPeNNGleajX5bKhw4uCQmhroQBGD_TxS44726jc1s1RErnCnaIxkgSqzeBqL719ObNvYm12n77ElwsOpkqIXeq3FIPlxxVUB2GrhihqOZKKF2BJrEPTnVAO3TWCjZOtyKcBcRor4/w400-h225/antor-paul-xU2CytdJHJQ-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">This is a much broader appeal right as it covers "other evidence and arguments" without restriction. This could mean a wide swath of appeal arguments may be considered. UCB has a provision that the discipline can not only be lessened or reversed, but that the matter can also be sent back for a rehearing.</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The UC campuses also vary largely in timelines for internal appeals and some windows are VERY short. Students need to pay close attention and act fast.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Which public 4 year college a student attends in California will determine if there may be an internal appeal right and/or the bases which the college will consider when a student tries to overturn a wrongful college suspension or </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">expulsion. Students should check the policies and get their appeals timely submitted with proper documents and evidence supporting all potential appeal bases. If a student fails to file an internal appeal per the policies, their discipline may </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">become final. As such, knowing the policies of the school a <span style="font-family: inherit;">student is attending is key. </span></span></p><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkCoeXE1HFX9PsqPQGSUF3-siJlK9eDX9zRddtypm1Rk_my-0GEaKqeqRVm6CvkAtCQThtr8iossq3s2r-VW-eGBNl1QK44Xkoty0lCxp6K_r-5U_kh74g6-A_83qGmtOkSO32MDNjaY/s640/sean-benesh-1S2401ur8_Q-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkCoeXE1HFX9PsqPQGSUF3-siJlK9eDX9zRddtypm1Rk_my-0GEaKqeqRVm6CvkAtCQThtr8iossq3s2r-VW-eGBNl1QK44Xkoty0lCxp6K_r-5U_kh74g6-A_83qGmtOkSO32MDNjaY/s320/sean-benesh-1S2401ur8_Q-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Ultimately, however, remember this: solving the matter at the first discipline hearing will avoid any internal or other appeals altogether and as such, preparing that matter well, with proper evidence, witnesses and documents proving the student is innocent, can be the most important thing to do. </span><p></p><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: xx-large;">Best,</span></p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
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<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span>Website</span></a><span>, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>Blog</span></a><span>, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span>Twitter</span></a><span>, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span>Youtube</span></a><span>, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span>Facebook</span></a><span> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span>Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></p></span><p></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-42305187484167792772020-10-29T17:10:00.004-07:002020-11-17T10:55:58.515-08:00Can A Bystander Be Suspended From School?<p> <i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">What does it take to issue a valid school suspension? Does a student have to DO something, or can they just be near someone who does something? Over the years, I have seen bystanders (aka witnesses) punished by schools when they did nothing but watch others do wrong. When are students who witness a wrong done by another guilty of an offense which can be properly punished by a school? </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1AOIEb9hkya4RhB9Cm3zXZQCu0q-ckHj9Io8jU0PDpJapfxOj8EOCb8I7nnPF0X2uqCZAEv5IpzNlL_O31W8Dz-czVyProX5dkaPDn8OSTngwKgwdDEAxzRrFNj-bCyAnH1nBkAWOBw/s960/baylee-gramling-5m4Z14SDL80-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN1AOIEb9hkya4RhB9Cm3zXZQCu0q-ckHj9Io8jU0PDpJapfxOj8EOCb8I7nnPF0X2uqCZAEv5IpzNlL_O31W8Dz-czVyProX5dkaPDn8OSTngwKgwdDEAxzRrFNj-bCyAnH1nBkAWOBw/w275-h377/baylee-gramling-5m4Z14SDL80-unsplash.jpg" width="275" /></a></span></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The California Education Code lists out all the potential areas for which a student may be suspended or expelled. It also lists out things that schools CANNOT punish students for. Things not listed as suspension-eligible offenses are also not suspendable. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Schools are limited by these state laws, voted in by our legislature. Of course, the codes can be vague, and cover a LOT of areas of alleged wrong, from arranging a drug sale, to possession of nicotine products. </span></p><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>But what about bystanders or witnesses to an event? What about the kid who watches as someone sells drugs to another but says nothing? Or, the students who run to a fight and just stand there? Unfortunately, sometimes schools punish students by association, believing as they were there, that they participated in the wrongful action. </o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>If a school validates a student did not actually commit a wrong, m</o:p></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">ost just obtain their statement about the events and don't suspend the innocent student. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Some, however, do.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">A prime example I have seen is a school which suspended students observing a fight. It seems that the school morphed a kid standing near a fight into an offender, claiming willful defiance. I disagree strongly that standing near someone committing an actual prohibited act makes someone guilty of a wrong. No suspension should issue when a student does not knowingly DO something prohibited.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1TTwxiyXhdUHh8n_072KnPP1V_8cpwtSILdF15ehpY3AlU9ev-RdzcaFDsgruvFG4ky4R9R-WV9y4qk8pvUQJg8DUIRNnKhTgfcWhzGKxMtmaElWJXE7RiOLEsXj7funYMxeWxNzQPfc/s641/ashley-whitlatch--GzTlU3T_5U-unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1TTwxiyXhdUHh8n_072KnPP1V_8cpwtSILdF15ehpY3AlU9ev-RdzcaFDsgruvFG4ky4R9R-WV9y4qk8pvUQJg8DUIRNnKhTgfcWhzGKxMtmaElWJXE7RiOLEsXj7funYMxeWxNzQPfc/w544-h320/ashley-whitlatch--GzTlU3T_5U-unsplash.jpg" width="544" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Under <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.&lawCode=EDC">Education Code section 48900(k)</a>, students may be suspended for willful defiance or disruption, but only if they are in ninth through twelfth grade, and it is highly questionable whether standing near a fight is defiant. This in fact could be protected speech. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">These types of alleged bystander offenses should be challenged by parents. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobWnFeacxebDNrATonbnYvBUT2PA6GwVW7-3hvGiJsiZWPi3X3bnjBAWviKevF7WG_ZM37Z9_IxGbDObHWw6wL3_DKIcHo0rT__UOSXSO5f_fxReQDvmjquHo6VwDLbZqNQgt5MQcg6Q/s640/pexels-sharefaith-1202723.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhobWnFeacxebDNrATonbnYvBUT2PA6GwVW7-3hvGiJsiZWPi3X3bnjBAWviKevF7WG_ZM37Z9_IxGbDObHWw6wL3_DKIcHo0rT__UOSXSO5f_fxReQDvmjquHo6VwDLbZqNQgt5MQcg6Q/s320/pexels-sharefaith-1202723.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The only disclaimer here, is the fact that California courts have sided with the schools, even for offenses which don't "fit" in delineated suspendable offenses, such as the <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-court-censorship/supreme-court-rejects-free-speech-appeal-over-cinco-de-mayo-school-dispute-idUSKBN0MQ1JD20150330">restriction of students' ability to wear an American Flag shirt on Cinco de Mayo</a>, to prevent alleged gang issues. So, although I see no grounds for bystander offenses, the courts sometimes surprise you, supporting an almost dictatorial control over all kids under a school's authority. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Best,</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span>Website</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>Blog</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span>Twitter</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span>Youtube</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span>Facebook</span></a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-70115340410094512812020-10-08T17:39:00.003-07:002021-02-08T13:18:05.679-08:00Transitioning To College As A Disabled Student And Getting Support While You Are There<p> <i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p>Transitioning from high school to college can be exciting and challenging for young adults. For a student who was previously on an <a href="https://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/2012/08/school-districts-must-revise-iep.html" target="_blank">IEP (Individualized Education Program)</a> or <a href="https://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/2012/07/does-school-have-to-follow-my-childs.html" target="_blank">Section 504 plan</a> (accommodations plan) in high school, the challenges increase. However, proper planning and talking to the right folks at the college or university where the student will attend or is attending can help. </o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8W-7I19m3tn-l5YBG_dR38E_ph2RKVIRmreEnCF-xuDhnO_-GO00phtnhVMlUHhyphenhyphenzjC5Hw0hXhiQl5owDAP7vYs7ebMPU69iwPmRzwGdy1Wm88smJEh7TJqmMhzHVjUS8cQCQ6YbQoKw/s2048/element5-digital-jCIMcOpFHig-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1356" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8W-7I19m3tn-l5YBG_dR38E_ph2RKVIRmreEnCF-xuDhnO_-GO00phtnhVMlUHhyphenhyphenzjC5Hw0hXhiQl5owDAP7vYs7ebMPU69iwPmRzwGdy1Wm88smJEh7TJqmMhzHVjUS8cQCQ6YbQoKw/s320/element5-digital-jCIMcOpFHig-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Students should be aware of changes that will occur as far as their obligations and the support levels to which they are entitled. There is no more IEP plan or process, </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">as all school IEP obligations vanish when the student graduates from high school. There is no mandatory</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> "504 meeting" to develop accommodations, nor obligation of staff to follow up for the student in college. This means the student may be on their own, if they don't get a college support plan put in place and take steps to get it known and applied. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Section 504 obligations continue to apply with colleges accepting federal funds, and the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) applies to most colleges, excluding religious colleges. For public colleges, one looks to <a href="https://www.ada.gov/ada_title_II.htm" target="_blank">ADA Title II</a>, and for private non-religious colleges, <a href="https://www.ada.gov/ada_title_III.htm" target="_blank">ADA Title III</a>. Housing requirements may be covered by the <a href="https://www.justice.gov/crt/fair-housing-act-1" target="_blank">Fair Housing Act</a>. Other laws may also apply. However, no one is obligated to do anything unless they are notified by the student of their disability and needs.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">For academic and other accommodations, the first step is to contact the college or university's disabled students office, such as the "<a href="https://sdc.ucdavis.edu/" target="_blank">Student Disability Office</a>" if a student attends the University of California, Davis (UCD), or the "<a href="https://www.csus.edu/student-affairs/centers-programs/services-students-disabilities/" target="_blank">Services for Students with Disabilities Office</a>" at the California State University, Sacramento (CSUS).</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Once a student makes contact, they should follow the procedures outlined by the college to become a registered disabled student. This may involve provision of various documents evidencing a disabling condition, as well as meetings to discuss the student's needs in the classroom and at the college. The discussion which ensues is typically called the "Interactive Process" during which the student should indicate what they think could assist them, with the school personnel offering their take on potential effective accommodations to help meet the student's needs.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /><span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSsXS6LUX5bfXrnL-aTj33xb5rJqZajzRJAjgJ8Q7VBxSzJ15gfDnRJ_5mLmIS8Xipaa1M7ZeyUDHkt9kmqw2vYWF9EwpIurzpYz3SI-d68ZZ0O7m0G3lTXlwVm4cbxxfnyNxja9_QoM/s640/sharon-mccutcheon-eMP4sYPJ9x0-unsplash+%25281%2529.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFSsXS6LUX5bfXrnL-aTj33xb5rJqZajzRJAjgJ8Q7VBxSzJ15gfDnRJ_5mLmIS8Xipaa1M7ZeyUDHkt9kmqw2vYWF9EwpIurzpYz3SI-d68ZZ0O7m0G3lTXlwVm4cbxxfnyNxja9_QoM/s320/sharon-mccutcheon-eMP4sYPJ9x0-unsplash+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span>The college is not obligated to alter the fundamental program in which the student must participate or the requirements for a degree, but they can set up items which can ensure the student proper access to the curriculum equal to other students.</span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Typically, there is a back and forth which may continue outside the meeting process, with a document eventually developed outlining what professors must do and put in place in their classrooms to assist the student. The plan can also offer solutions for physical barriers and needs on campus, such as with regard to parking, accessible entrances and other items for the student to access their education and the campus.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Often the "plan" must be taken by the student and provided to professors who will need to implement it, prior to classes starting and/or before the student wants the </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">accommodations to take </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">effect. This is different from</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">during high</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeq2qkCMBGMkkJFobCOV6njq-_zzwPjBwb0cUEqT5X7J_adCmMHIiv01oRhTwYD40iKR-iLGR3iQUUocQxMl7JJSneWrBH4M5X0nEhYliNwhE-mXC4fq_x5fioDrYhWidCSerIJcTroiU/s790/matt-artz-w0XNdcZxJwg-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeq2qkCMBGMkkJFobCOV6njq-_zzwPjBwb0cUEqT5X7J_adCmMHIiv01oRhTwYD40iKR-iLGR3iQUUocQxMl7JJSneWrBH4M5X0nEhYliNwhE-mXC4fq_x5fioDrYhWidCSerIJcTroiU/s320/matt-artz-w0XNdcZxJwg-unsplash.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> school, where the obligation was on the school or school district staff to notify teachers and ensure an IEP was being implemented. Now, the obligation to notify staff may be on the college student, depending on who must be notified (e.g. with some restrictions the student would not have access to applicable personnel and the college may need to step in). </span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If there are issues with enforcement, the student can follow any internal process to resolve issues, or they can also file complaints outside the college with the <a href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html" target="_blank">US Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights </a>or the <a href="https://www.justice.gov/actioncenter/submit-complaint#discrimination" target="_blank">US Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division,</a> depending on the type of college.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If you or a loved one are in college now, and have disabilities, but don't have a formal support plan, it could be a good idea to look into what is available. Even if a student is having no apparent issues or needs, it is often best to get these plans in place before an issue arises, as after it arises, the student cannot usually attack the college for "noncompliance" if the student either did not set up a a plan or failed to notify their professors about the plan.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span>Website</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>Blog</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span>Twitter</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span>Youtube</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span>Facebook</span></a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting. This blog may not be reproduced without
permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may
not reflect the current state of the law.</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-20823955201429450332020-09-29T15:18:00.002-07:002020-09-29T15:18:41.460-07:00Medical Marijuana Administration And School Discipline<p>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><br /></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;">In 2020, students were granted the right to have medical marijuana
administered to them in school by their parent or guardian IF formally authorized by their school
district. The circumstances surrounding this potential opportunity
can be confusing and if the law is not followed properly, could lead to
discipline.</span></o:p></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></o:p></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-size: x-large;">Per
<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=49414.1.">Education Code </a></span></o:p></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=49414.1.">§49414.1</a> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">(aka JoJo's Law), it is up to each school board </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxEhfr0DNi0vrm9FjjqfJVffRXbV6XpryRYEnz-Q1qH7MfB7hjG7cjs36Qla6Gyw1QheoYzufSiLy6CKHQp1XDtLvIT_O3PcgGMWdm599r-BcZ2gb0lo065VG00wk1MD_49Hlz5PxS7k/s640/kendal-L4iKccAChOc-unsplash.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxEhfr0DNi0vrm9FjjqfJVffRXbV6XpryRYEnz-Q1qH7MfB7hjG7cjs36Qla6Gyw1QheoYzufSiLy6CKHQp1XDtLvIT_O3PcgGMWdm599r-BcZ2gb0lo065VG00wk1MD_49Hlz5PxS7k/s320/kendal-L4iKccAChOc-unsplash.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">if they will implement a </span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">policy to allow a parent to</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">administer medical</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">marijuana/cannabis at their
schools. If there is no policy in place allowing this, there is no right to administer medical marijuana at school.</span><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span>If there is a board policy, per </span></o:p></span><span>§</span><span>49414.1: </span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</span></p>
<p style="background-color: border-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(c) The policy shall include, at a minimum, all of the following
elements:</i></span>
</span></p>
<p style="background-color: border-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(1) The parent or guardian shall not administer the medicinal
cannabis in a manner that disrupts the educational environment or exposes
other pupils.</i></span>
</span></p>
<p style="background-color: border-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(2) After the parent or guardian administers the medicinal cannabis,
the parent or guardian shall remove any remaining medicinal cannabis from
the schoolsite.</i></span>
</span></p>
<p style="background-color: border-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(3) The parent or guardian shall sign in at the schoolsite before
administering the medicinal cannabis.</i></span>
</span></p>
<p style="background-color: border-width: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(4) Before administering the medicinal cannabis, the parent or
guardian shall provide to an employee of the school a valid written
medical recommendation for medicinal cannabis for the pupil to be kept on
file at the school.</i></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If your child receives medical marijuana and you would like to administer
it to them during their school day, check your district's board of
education page to see if there may be a board policy in place. If
there is, it is critical that it is read and understood as far as what
exactly IS allowed. </span></span>
</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">If a parent does not follow the rules of their district exactly, the student could be disciplined. For example, if a parent just can't get to school that day, and rather than forego giving the medication, they hand the medical marijuana to the student to stick in their backpack. This is not allowed and discipline could result.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxsii5oO7N1M8F1pLz-Ynp6tsP6uKZonHZ_Oi8av5rW860eUVO8JUMht0Ew1w7KdTTqQ8Nf_8xz-gF-qV5ykpH5NPz2vfKRjoFAdohp_Q2XGzWcq4QSmLrkV5TlcS_kuLpe4Hs-Jv8IA/s2048/stockvault-angry-woman-silhouette264194.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1537" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxsii5oO7N1M8F1pLz-Ynp6tsP6uKZonHZ_Oi8av5rW860eUVO8JUMht0Ew1w7KdTTqQ8Nf_8xz-gF-qV5ykpH5NPz2vfKRjoFAdohp_Q2XGzWcq4QSmLrkV5TlcS_kuLpe4Hs-Jv8IA/s320/stockvault-angry-woman-silhouette264194.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span>There remain
<a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.&lawCode=EDC">laws</a>
on school discipline allowing suspension or expulsion </span><span>for possession or being under the influence of marijuana, and this legal conflict has not been addressed</span><span>. As such, parents may want to formally confirm that if their child is "under the influence" due to allowed medical marijuana, they will not be
punished as this "influence" is medically authorized and allowed by board policy. </span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span>Parents may also want to explore a <a href="https://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/2014/01/how-to-prepare-for-and-write.html">504 Plan</a> or <a href="https://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/2011/04/iep-meeting-preparation-gather-your.html">Individualized Education Program (IEP)</a> to see if the medication use or administration options </span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">(and other supports)</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">may be addressed in one of these plans. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span>There is still a
lot of confusion surrounding medical marijuana at school, and students get punished for matters
relating to cannabis very frequently. Be sure your child won't.</span></span></p></div><div><p></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></span>
</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This is legal information, not legal
advice and no attorney-client relationship is formed by this posting, etc.
etc.! This blog may not be reproduced without permission from
the author and proper attribution of authorship. This blog may not reflect
the current state of the law.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span>
</p>
</div>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-85792184176481056782020-09-09T11:50:00.000-07:002020-09-09T11:50:32.799-07:00Who is a Resident of a School District? <p><span style="font-size: large;"> <i>By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995 </i></span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">What district a student is a resident of is usually a simple matter isn't it? Where does one live and what does the online map say? Regardless, sometimes this can become a tricky and very important issue for kids. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">Where a student resides legally comes up when a family moves, when a student wants to attend a school where their parent works, their parents are in the military, or are taken out of the state, while the child remains behind in California. Residency status can become critical, and can involve investigations by school districts and termination of attendance if a student is not found a "resident" of the school district where they attend.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">The bottom line is to attend a school district one must be a resident of that school district as defined by state law and district policy. Simply, a resident is a student </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3W3jDLAcXray_ODJa8gyjy5z0-JZ_d6FcSvjmWZrGnKrjM2KezzoXRdpFGZFsRBkGT9g0qHyBrNjW72L9Smn-3NoEGHa7RN4YbdpmUp2xVNV_TrE9JoTDcMMstUX0mufpms-OmrTaaM/s640/cdc-UqTrGSohyCs-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3W3jDLAcXray_ODJa8gyjy5z0-JZ_d6FcSvjmWZrGnKrjM2KezzoXRdpFGZFsRBkGT9g0qHyBrNjW72L9Smn-3NoEGHa7RN4YbdpmUp2xVNV_TrE9JoTDcMMstUX0mufpms-OmrTaaM/w500-h333/cdc-UqTrGSohyCs-unsplash.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-large;">living with their parents within the boundaries of a school district. A resident is also, per <a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48204.">California Education Code Section 48204</a>, defined as:</span><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student who is attending on an interdistrict attendance agreement (transfer) which has been approved (<a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=46600.&lawCode=EDC">California Education Code section 46600</a>)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- An emancipated minor living within the district</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student living in a caregivers home in the district (e.g.caregiver affidavit)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student in a state hospital in the district</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student whose parent or legal guardian works at least 10 hours in that district, who has been approved for transfer. So long as the parent remains employed, this student should be able to attend through twelfth grade without reapplication (<a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48204.">California Education Code section 48204(b)(8)</a>).</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A foster care, family home, or children's institution resident living in the district boundaries.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A foster care student who remains in their school (but may not live in that area) within the district</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFQ4WuYuB1A2A0ujwCCdOMkOge62gEljbHjLJm3_9oJ6r5wUUWI6go9j3RThwqWHjY9_fYVlZ-BXzbq2YlyojDwBmZ_0WCJ48CWUDB7OElG75wZq3rWmZdZrt9_tdCAQ7eoZmaMQiMAM/s640/anton-sukhinov-_C2A8THeKKs-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="640" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFQ4WuYuB1A2A0ujwCCdOMkOge62gEljbHjLJm3_9oJ6r5wUUWI6go9j3RThwqWHjY9_fYVlZ-BXzbq2YlyojDwBmZ_0WCJ48CWUDB7OElG75wZq3rWmZdZrt9_tdCAQ7eoZmaMQiMAM/w500-h354/anton-sukhinov-_C2A8THeKKs-unsplash.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">Students may also continue to attend a school, although the codes do not address whether they are "residents," in the following circumstances:</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student whose parent is active military and who is being transferred into the district. (<a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48204.3.&lawCode=EDC">California Education Code section 48204.3</a>)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student whose parent has departed the state involuntarily, regardless of where the pupil lived in California prior to the departure (<a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48204.4.&lawCode=EDC">California Education Code section 48204.4</a>)</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student belonging to a military family who attends and was a resident previously (<a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48204.6.&lawCode=EDC">California Education Code section 48204.6</a>). The time they are allowed to stay will depend on the grade in which they were/are enrolled.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">- A student who is migratory and attends that district (<a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48204.7.&lawCode=EDC">California Education Code section 48204.7</a>). The time they are allowed to stay will depend on the grade in which they were/are enrolled.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">This determination of a student's status as a "resident," is critical for many families, to ensure their kids don't have to switch schools unnecessarily or that a student can enter a particular district or remain at their school of attendance.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">Best,</span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a><span style="color: black;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This
blog may not reflect the current state of the law. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">[This communication may be considered a communication/solicitation
for services]</span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></span><p></p>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-79644471669552580822020-08-21T13:40:00.000-07:002020-08-21T13:48:05.818-07:00School Suspension And Expulsion For Fighting Or Threats of Harm <span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>By
Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since 1995</i><br />
<br />
There are a multitude of bases for student discipline. One of those bases involves fighting (aka "mutual combat"), threats, and/or physical violence to another. Such conduct may or may not get a student suspended or placed up for expulsion.<br />
<br />
Per California <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.&lawCode=EDC" target="">Education Code 48900(a)(1)</a> for a student to be suspended or expelled for this type of conduct, they must have:<br />
<br />
</span><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical </i><br />
<i>injury to another person, or</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Willfully used force or violence upon the person of another, </i><br />
<i>except in self-defense.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDTFmGtOcJx6uikMjHnslMdE7X7nkMesBJo62etiaQVcftB3Gl5bc1EzxWx8NaMQpQavgdrffd0pMUfXI-RYGJsk3oLnTpzWByuOpTKFU8qqC3PLANmdI3peTQUwNw8uHNzqUxbsHSZVk/s640/pexels-snapwire-62376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDTFmGtOcJx6uikMjHnslMdE7X7nkMesBJo62etiaQVcftB3Gl5bc1EzxWx8NaMQpQavgdrffd0pMUfXI-RYGJsk3oLnTpzWByuOpTKFU8qqC3PLANmdI3peTQUwNw8uHNzqUxbsHSZVk/w512-h341/pexels-snapwire-62376.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-large;">But, what does this mean in "real life?" It means student fighting, threats to hurt someone (even vague ones), and responding in a physical way when attacked by another student, can get a student punished. <br />
<br />
Fighting in schools, unfortunately may not be what you think, as the schools deem anyone responding physically to an attack as being involved in that fight. </span><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Although self defense is listed as an excuse which should prevent discipline, self defense is rarely accepted as a reason to NOT punish, unless a student who is assaulted<i><b> runs away to the office, to an adult, or curls up in a fetal position to take the beating</b></i>... <u>I am not being sarcastic.</u> <br />
<br />
For example, if a student is hit by another student, and hits back, the schools usually deems this "mutual combat," and suspend both kids, regardless of who started it. The insertion of the words "except in <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcbG7661BC8i7tKzuL1beBEeyd0v5BYgjUgEVigglrBdJ6e95-vrXqaTSDyeORTyzXQ54rPyfBwmt0_VjQMNQF6S9MQXZqEw6W_Ciy_EwfbRyzew0DRkfDJj3EdnQjJ0nGfkLA9bkIcU/s640/pexels-pixabay-236147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUcbG7661BC8i7tKzuL1beBEeyd0v5BYgjUgEVigglrBdJ6e95-vrXqaTSDyeORTyzXQ54rPyfBwmt0_VjQMNQF6S9MQXZqEw6W_Ciy_EwfbRyzew0DRkfDJj3EdnQjJ0nGfkLA9bkIcU/w410-h273/pexels-pixabay-236147.jpg" width="410" /></a></div>self-defense," is very confusing as schools usually ignore this phrase, and suspend students if they engage in any form of physical altercation, and even if the student has no other choice (e.g. they are attacked). <br />
<br />
There are times when schools may allow the self defense "excuse," for example, when it is glaringly obvious, such as with a gang beating, but for the most part in a two student battle, both will be punished regardless of who started it.<br />
<br />
Additionally, the mere "threat" of physical harm can get a student punished. A "hit list" against students or teachers, threats to students or school personnel on social media, in threatening or violent essays, and even drawings of guns and destruction can land a student in the discipline hot seat. First <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHQYMHOlakwOEJqlCokYjBwVLDZpVW7KjbmGm2bIBSLB3_Iry4COep5DOxCVaqfeDQ15OYJMROXd7udDfl6Zb_5Rtj6UOkqA-qo-ro7tflp9QId4lM-6-Io3qt-OMFgiL8XDnIryLJ9I/s963/pexels-brother%2527s-photo-240174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="963" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHQYMHOlakwOEJqlCokYjBwVLDZpVW7KjbmGm2bIBSLB3_Iry4COep5DOxCVaqfeDQ15OYJMROXd7udDfl6Zb_5Rtj6UOkqA-qo-ro7tflp9QId4lM-6-Io3qt-OMFgiL8XDnIryLJ9I/s640/pexels-brother%2527s-photo-240174.jpg" /></a></div>Amendment free speech issues may arise, but schools usually ignore such rights if they exist at all, claiming an immediate and disruptive threat.<br />
<br />
Whether a student actually will be punished for such conduct each time is up to the school. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Usually in the student handbook will be a grid with a list of crimes and the possible punishment for each. With fighting, or other physical harm, the schools will usually allow suspension OR expulsion even on a first offense.<br />
<br />
In the "old days," students could probably defend themselves for real and not be suspended, but in our "zero tolerance" world, this is not the case. Students are expected to take a beating or run away so they won't be in trouble. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">Alas, no one ever said that school discipline was logical or reasonable, and I would certainly never make that claim. <br /></span><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;"><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Best,<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a>, <a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Please see my <a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This
blog may not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div style="margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black;"><i>Originally published 5/5/11, updated 1/16/18, 8/21/20</i></span></span></div>
</div>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-11508316904732828672020-08-11T12:41:00.003-07:002020-08-11T12:41:59.835-07:00How To Get Speech, Occupational Therapy and Other Related Services Delivered To Our Kids During Coronavirus<p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> <i>By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</i></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The end of the 2019-2020 school year was a nightmare for kids, and hardest hit were special needs students. Now that fall 2020 is starting mainly at home, students are not likely to receive adequate special education services, including their "related services." </span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></o:p></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nCO1vGNWOriZYSxh5ECrlA9INYYJqPZcsePvfNy0kTnwmX27oc79vNteQFj0pYdGkrAC46Rg1Z5Y7FLmx6_kyZv_YQIlOqvmRz6VVewo3vwR-xeeWZVqIHb8hSol4qN-zF__ScBuRA8/s1024/children-at-work-3-1517399-640x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nCO1vGNWOriZYSxh5ECrlA9INYYJqPZcsePvfNy0kTnwmX27oc79vNteQFj0pYdGkrAC46Rg1Z5Y7FLmx6_kyZv_YQIlOqvmRz6VVewo3vwR-xeeWZVqIHb8hSol4qN-zF__ScBuRA8/s640/children-at-work-3-1517399-640x1024.jpg" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Related services are things such as speech and language, occupational therapy, adaptive physical education, and other similar supportive services necessary to help a special needs student to be educat</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">ed. These can be very difficult to deliver via online options and schools recently have cut down the provision of these services due to distance learning.</span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">One possible solution for the delivery of these services is to have a school district pay for outside service providers to deliver in person services to the student. These could be delivered either at the provider's business or in the student's home (if the provider and family are willing). </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Recently I have reached out to a local private speech and language provider and found they are open for business and can deliver right now to students at their office. This means that while school employees are not available for students to meet with, other equally qualified professionals are. The argument is that these outside services must be provided or students will regress.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Parents may want to research what services are available in their area for in person delivery and contact their school to attempt to get their child's services delivered by these outside providers. If the school argues they are already delivering, that argument can be countered by asking if they are willing to deliver their services in person or not and pointing out the obvious difficulties and deficiencies present with online provision. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecpOFR6KyncI-EvC6Xdv-3rCJgUp-Xmx-5zcyHh392916DcLbK8YP3iSmCyXzdexVpfYrRg-JqiE7TaZzn2QPTd8yztJv5-OqOUrez5oSaFG_ATGa2ths_390Djq5fVwOTBRh1dkZ4cw/s639/elmo-child-1563694-639x424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="639" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecpOFR6KyncI-EvC6Xdv-3rCJgUp-Xmx-5zcyHh392916DcLbK8YP3iSmCyXzdexVpfYrRg-JqiE7TaZzn2QPTd8yztJv5-OqOUrez5oSaFG_ATGa2ths_390Djq5fVwOTBRh1dkZ4cw/w409-h272/elmo-child-1563694-639x424.jpg" width="409" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">There is a huge difference between in person and video services </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">when it comes to speech and language, occupational therapy, and adaptive physical education. I have had some clients give up doing video delivery altogether as they cannot get the student to attend and they also don't have the equipment or training to deliver the services to their kids.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Additionally, parents can ask to be reimbursed for their mileage to </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">and from these services. The mileage reimbursement must be listed in the IEP.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Other supports such as from an aide/paraprofessional, where a student may be accompanied by a trained assistant throughout their schoolday, may have vanished recently as well.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">With aide services, if a student is </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">entitled to sp</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">ecialized support, they should be</span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCJZn2zg90RFGCfXwJHVlm70lZBlfa-oHuzc9nfodNCpUZfe10CJIjtefVZV1dmUxZmaYJx22XGt8cGIPQrXY9BR_j1n5VKcfJVjv2C1EuhSA0eEM8Uo07vwbRWvAp-P5F7kUyFSy4Uc/s931/homeless-portrait-portraiture-poverty-poor-child-children-1439949-639x930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="931" data-original-width="639" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCJZn2zg90RFGCfXwJHVlm70lZBlfa-oHuzc9nfodNCpUZfe10CJIjtefVZV1dmUxZmaYJx22XGt8cGIPQrXY9BR_j1n5VKcfJVjv2C1EuhSA0eEM8Uo07vwbRWvAp-P5F7kUyFSy4Uc/s640/homeless-portrait-portraiture-poverty-poor-child-children-1439949-639x930.jpg" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-large;">provided that <span style="font-family: inherit;">support to the </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">fullest extent possible. The aide should attend their classes with them, at the very least, and perhaps assist them online for their whole school day (as they would have been at school had it been in session) and beyond, helping them with whatever they need. If minutes of service are noted in the IEP, those minutes should be delivered. There are other arguments that aides should help children directly, but those may be a bit more complex at this point.</span><p></p><div><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">We have to do something, and not just wait until this is all over to try to pick up the pieces. If outside providers are available to deliver, this may be an option for families to receive some of their services during this difficult time. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Research and an IEP meeting may be the first steps to take to move our kids forward, as the government does not seem they will solve this problem for us.</span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">
Best,<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This
blog may not reflect the current state of the law.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></o:p></span></p></div>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-6235532357209699242020-07-15T15:11:00.000-07:002020-08-21T13:55:43.939-07:00School Suspension Or Expulsion For Bullying<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since 1995</span></i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<i><br />
</i></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Do you remember the school bully? Or, maybe you have seen movie depictions such as the red haired youth with his raccoon fur hat who terrorizes the main character, Ralphie, in <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0085334/"><i>A Christmas Story</i></a>. </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Bullying can occur anywhere in schools: in the classroom, in the bathroom, in the office, behind a building, on a field trip, on the way to or from school -- wherever students interact. </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Bullying conduct, or actions that someone says are bullying, may result in a student being suspended or expelled. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVFLWsLhOLhW6no_iL3v5fGWCYtrEh2on6yXB6llP3FTNVpiYhyTwqptOUkyhvohnfZyOfQtlsgdhf6slrgrrKQVWf70gOAfqD_FIQV7pd7pL1qvm2aKEpKm6wKrA2yHWrk5dGW4ZzsrA/s1600/clem-onojeghuo-WvS0rSIFAJE-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1157" data-original-width="1600" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVFLWsLhOLhW6no_iL3v5fGWCYtrEh2on6yXB6llP3FTNVpiYhyTwqptOUkyhvohnfZyOfQtlsgdhf6slrgrrKQVWf70gOAfqD_FIQV7pd7pL1qvm2aKEpKm6wKrA2yHWrk5dGW4ZzsrA/s400/clem-onojeghuo-WvS0rSIFAJE-unsplash.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Per California Education Code section <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.&lawCode=EDC">48900(r)</a>, students who bully can be removed from school. Bullying is defined generally as:</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">[A]ny severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act ...that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one ore more of the following [on a "reasonable pupil"]: </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">1) Places the student in fear of harm (for themselves or their property).</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">2) Has a "substantially detrimental effect" to the student's physical or mental health.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">3) Causes substantial interference with the student's academic performance.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>4) Causes substantial interference with the student participating in or benefiting from "the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school. [</i>information summarized not quoted<i>]</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">When implemented, the legislature did attempt to limit the application of this statute to require "substantial" interference in three out of four of the categories. However, they did not provide a definition as far as what amounts to "substantial interference," nor explain what a "substantially detrimental effect" to a reasonable student might be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The overbroadness of this statute means that practically anything can come under the "bullying" heading as many things kids do could put almost anyone "in fear of harm." </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKvtF7iO3q9wQgFsvURESWA3LGWeumQb-8YO8M56NGmzfmduKhp9atgUryktc3KC-t-6l5uNYKY2ac0bJd61yAUAWSm27lXZ3S0dAwOM5dBmuo1HFQchFPD-U6mtGp3tCxkRl_4L5syw/s1600/jordan-whitt-KQCXf_zvdaU-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKvtF7iO3q9wQgFsvURESWA3LGWeumQb-8YO8M56NGmzfmduKhp9atgUryktc3KC-t-6l5uNYKY2ac0bJd61yAUAWSm27lXZ3S0dAwOM5dBmuo1HFQchFPD-U6mtGp3tCxkRl_4L5syw/s320/jordan-whitt-KQCXf_zvdaU-unsplash.jpg" width="213" /></a><span style="font-size: x-large;">Unfortunately, when disciplining students, schools require a low level of proof that an offense has </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">occurred. He who speaks first is believed. And it does not help matters that expulsion hearings are usually in front of a panel of hand-picked District employees who will hear and decide on the matter.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">The many ways actual and perceived bullying can manifest in school would be a good topic to go over with kids, so they can avoid a suspension or expulsion, as well as report bullying if seen to start the <a href="https://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/2011/01/bullying-some-good-weekend-reading.html">mandated investigation</a> of process so they can help prevent it. If you find your child being punished for "bullying," don't fear: with a thorough review of the legal codes and evidence, you just may show no bullying actually occurred. </span><br />
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Best,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a>, <a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a>, <a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">disclaimer</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This
blog may not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
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<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Originally published on August 27, 2012, updated July 15, 2020</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">[This communication may be considered a
communication/solicitation for services]</span></i><br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-49826224885941151492020-07-13T18:39:00.003-07:002020-07-13T18:39:13.994-07:00Do You Want Your Kids To Go Back To In-Person Education This Fall? Call, Write, Email, Contact Your District And School To Express Your Opinion<br />
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<i><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995 <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Have you been on edge not knowing if your kids will actually get an in-person education this fall due to the Coronavirus fears? The not knowing is difficult. Parents need to get back to work, but how can they work if their kids are at home? And, are kids REALLY being educated if they are getting a couple hours of classes a week online? What are they doing the rest of the day? What can we do and what must we do if we want schools to reopen? It's time to communicate.</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0CEYGoopYgElykY438OGFu6ZmYXKKxOqEIHoegDEh0Ty3mMjSGdlzBTbuG_3GdDF8hFq6z_jP77dAR9JEeMzmOk60UwYiofCRytESJAVMZ1VLMd5LRVlsuDVlkVtOUBumqffXapZIuQ/s1600/office-1209640_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD0CEYGoopYgElykY438OGFu6ZmYXKKxOqEIHoegDEh0Ty3mMjSGdlzBTbuG_3GdDF8hFq6z_jP77dAR9JEeMzmOk60UwYiofCRytESJAVMZ1VLMd5LRVlsuDVlkVtOUBumqffXapZIuQ/s400/office-1209640_640.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Although there are some <a href="https://www.cde.ca.gov/schooldirectory/">charter home schools</a></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> already set up for great distance learning which anyone can sign up for, <a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/312674/parents-slightly-favor-full-time-person-school-fall.aspx">most parents want their kids in a physical school</a>, </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">even now. Yet the education of our kids has largely been thrown to the side of the road and crushed by Coronavirus. Now kids are not getting enough education or interaction, and are isolated and alone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The California Constitution makes education an essential right, as outlined in <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=CONS&division=&title=&part=&chapter=&article=IX">Article IX</a> which states:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Section 1</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">A general diffusion of knowledge and intelligence being essential to the preservation of the rights and liberties of the people, the Legislature shall encourage by all suitable means the promotion of intellectual, scientific, moral, and agricultural improvement.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Section 5</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The Legislature shall provide for a system of common schools by which a free school shall be kept up and supported in each district at least six months in every year, after the first year in which a school has been established.</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">For months we have been waiting to see what would be decided by the authorities, and if school would reopen. Would our <b>right to an education</b>, as outlined in the California Constitution, be returned? It depends on where you live and who is in charge.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I have heard from parents who have received the glorious notification that their kids have a school to go back to (if they want to send them), such as in <a href="http://www.puhsd.k12.ca.us/">Placer County</a>, or in <a href="https://www.lodiusd.net/parents/coronavirus-and-coldflu-season">Lodi, California</a>. I have also spoken to parents who were told no physical school was to begin, like in <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/education-news/articles/2020-07-13/los-angeles-san-diego-schools-wont-reopen-in-august-due-to-rising-coronavirus-cases">Los Angeles and San Diego</a>. These parents scratch their heads and say that this is impossible as they have young kids who cannot be left home, and that they are not equipped to teach them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">One family I know has a First Responder parent who has to work and who cannot watch the children, let alone educate them. This same family informed me that their District said that they had not been contacted by parents on the issue of reopening and as a result had concluded parents were indifferent to whether schools reopened for in-person education or not. Hardly! Parents care! <a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/312674/parents-slightly-favor-full-time-person-school-fall.aspx">Surveys</a> have found that the majority of parents want their kids to return to full time face-to-face school, or at least want the choice whether they do or they don't.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Ultimately, parents ALWAYS had the choice of whether to send their kids to in-person school or not, ever prior to Coronavirus. Parents can enroll their kids in independent study, put them in a free charter school, create a private home school, or have students attend classes in the community part time with a home/class hybrid. We did not need Coronavirus to have these options. Parents do not need to be forced to keep their kids home- they can decide themselves, so long as the options are available to them. Even if schools simply reopened, all parents could still keep their kids home to pursue alternative education options if they so desired, regardless.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvQo_z3P6rwlJTs87vUogHL24H4Z5fCsi629vFA-8zrio5zdcGhNb77GakQA3lf8niXYJXAqkbUZXixcygMdEL0CAl2nry5wRREXV6ktdk5ax_nLCn5r2ReMUC7ZMZcfHMP74afxhVjY/s1600/possible-379215_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="472" data-original-width="640" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvQo_z3P6rwlJTs87vUogHL24H4Z5fCsi629vFA-8zrio5zdcGhNb77GakQA3lf8niXYJXAqkbUZXixcygMdEL0CAl2nry5wRREXV6ktdk5ax_nLCn5r2ReMUC7ZMZcfHMP74afxhVjY/s320/possible-379215_640.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">If parents want kids to return or at least to have the option to return, it may be time to politely and reasonably contact the local school districts, the principals, our teachers, our congresspeople, the <a href="https://govapps.gov.ca.gov/gov40mail/">Governor</a></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">, the <a href="https://www.cde.ca.gov/eo/bo/tt/index.asp">State Superintendent of Education</a></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">, the local newspaper and anyone else who may have a say in this, and let them know. Perhaps with enough voices, we can get the hesitant school districts to just get the job done already, after months of knowing this day was coming- to get distancing in place, to get the masks and hand sanitizer dispersed, staggered breaks set up, and get our kids back to life and learning. It is likely a large chunk of parents won't return their kids regardless, which means less crowding anyway for the rest of the kids.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Parents have more power than they think, but only if they exercise their right to be heard and express themselves. If schools and government officials are only hearing from teachers unions and government officials on this, kids may be at home until they are 18 and even into college with the way things are going. Kids will always get sick, whether it's from Coronavirus, the flu, or some other bug out there, but the harm from isolation and internet all day also poses a threat to our kids and their future. <a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2020/07/school-openings-across-globe-suggest-ways-keep-coronavirus-bay-despite-outbreaks?fbclid=IwAR0hsSXQ2CMkH2Nm7I8EysJayKhJ-tut4eWC5vQkL3SKGhFEZSuGwWSN7kU">How are other countries doing this</a>, but the USA cannot? We can do it also.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">It's time for some grass roots parent-driven advocacy. There are <a href="https://www.ppic.org/publication/californias-population/#:~:text=With%20almost%2040%20million%20people,45%20million%20people%20by%202050.">millions of parents in this state </a>and I would say that is enough to make an impression on school officials if the respectful noise is loud enough.</span></div>
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Best,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">disclaimer</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship. This
blog may not reflect the current state of the law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-31089809898528408722020-07-10T15:31:00.000-07:002020-07-10T15:31:25.046-07:00Special Education After Coronavirus- Steps To Take To Try To Recoup Services And Regain Lost Skills<br />
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<i><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995 <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">A</span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">s the months of Coronavirus destruction of life as we know it roll on, it is clear that not only </span></span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;">have</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> lives been destroyed, but also that the educational lives of our children have been crushed. This is especially true for special needs kids, who have been shoved home and largely forgotten about as far as the level of support they may need to access and advance in their education. With the fall approaching, and some schools reopening for physical classes, or a hybrid model of in-class instruction and online school, it is time to think about how to recover from the near-destruction of special education services this past time period.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Although no one has the answers on Coronavirus, what will happen, what may happen, and what parents may be entitled to in the future after a denial of their legally-mandated special education services, there are a few things that parents may want to do:</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">1) Review their child's IEP (Individualized Education Program) and/or 504 Plan document and list out all the services the child should have been receiving and the dates those services stopped.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">For example, if a student was to be receiving 30 minutes per week of speech and language services, this should be noted down. Did they also lose out on a specialized classroom, or behavior instruction? Put it all down. Note when the service should have continued through (e.g. May 31, 2020) and when it actually stopped (e.g. March 15, 2020).</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">2) List out all the services that were missed. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">On the speech and language example, if a student had no speech and language from March 15 through May 31, 2020, the student should have received approximately 11 sessions of speech and language, for a total of 5.5 hours of service. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">3) Figure out what services were actually provided, albeit via distance learning.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">4) List out all the goals that the student was working on for all areas and see if there are any updates on their progress on the goals from service providers or the school. Some schools provide zero quarterly updates, and some provide periodic updates listing the status of the goals. Parents need to know what the goals in place are and where the student is on accomplishing their goals, if possible. It may be tough to really determine where a student is on a goal, however, if they have not been in school. Parents can only do their best.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">5) Gather all the work the student did, as well as all email or other communication between the family and school or providers about the child during the Coronavirus exclusion, and get them into date order so it can be clearly seen what was represented would be provided, or not provided, and what was actually provided.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">6) Pull up the child's report card and lists of assignments for each class, showing points awarded and points possible during the last semester and see what the student was assigned, what they actually turned in and the points they received. Do the points they received evidence the student was at the level they are supposed to be? Often lists of points tell a story about the student, their weak and strong areas, and their trouble spots.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">These actions should give parents a good understanding of what was supposed to be provided, what was actually provided, and where the student may be as far as learning and goals. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">There is a question on special education and what parents and students will be entitled to when they return to school or if schools will just get out of their obligations due to Coronavirus. It is uncertain, but needs to be approached by parents if they want to have a chance to recoup. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Things will go faster for parents if schools will physically reopen versus remaining on virtual learning, simply due to the mechanics of services being delivered. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Parents should attempt to determine what may be needed to bring the student up to where they would have been had school been in session. Services to accomplish this goal should then be sought. This is hard to quantify, but parents may want to bring the literal hours missed to the school first (e.g. they missed 5.5 hours of speech) as a starting point. However, school districts don't necessarily have to provide hour for hour make-up time. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Ultimately, what may be required if the schools don't get out of this obligation due to a health emergency, are services to bring the student up to where they would have been had this debacle not occured. This is hard to evaluate and it is possible outside experts may have to be brought in to determine this (e.g. a licensed speech and language therapist). Services provided to make up loss may be in a smaller or larger amount than what should have been provided had schools remained open. Services are really based on what the student needs to be brought whole again. These services are sometimes called "compensatory" services, as they compensate a family for lost education.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">In its "<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/ocr-coronavirus-fact-sheet.pdf">Fact Sheet:Addressing the Risk of COVID-19 in SchoolsWhile Protecting the Civil Rights of Students</a>" released March 16, 2020, the United States Department of Education wrote in discussing the special ed issues from Coronavirus: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>The Department understands that there may be exceptional circumstances that could affect how a particular service
is provided. If a student does not receive services after an extended period of time, the student’s IEP Team, or
appropriate personnel under Section 504, <b>must make an individualized determination whether and to what extent
compensatory services are needed consistent with the respective applicable requirements, including to make up for
any skills that may have been lost. </b></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>[emphasis added]</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">This appears to confirm an affirmative obligation of schools to act to provide compensatory services to students who lost skills during this time. </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Offering compensatory services has started </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">happening outside California, for example in <a href="https://thelensnola.org/2020/07/01/schools-can-start-providing-special-education-help-now-to-make-up-for-covid-19-closures-state-says/?fbclid=IwAR0dZTm45SJHwj2-ONmyJsYaFZOjdFCYlWH0gAAyWLEKAsnn4bXzsS0uGN4">Louisiana</a> where the state is taking a proactive approach. <span style="font-family: inherit;"> I am not s</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">ure that California schools will take on this issue or offer compensatory services without being asked by parents first. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">How hard the districts fight or if they are able to wiggle out of compensatory services is yet to be seen.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Regardless, parents need to start looking at this and take action if they want to help their children regain any skills </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">lost</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">during the Coronavirus school shutdown. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Best,</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/">Website</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">Blog</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball">Twitter</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students">Youtube</a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857">Facebook</a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
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<br />Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-40165867042068935752020-06-25T15:03:00.000-07:002020-06-25T15:03:21.349-07:00College Discipline: Initial Contact And Investigation Meeting <p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="font-size: 14pt;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><font size="5"> </font></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">College discipline hearings can be difficult matters, and they all start with the allegation and investigation. Due to the potential for severe punishment, it is important the initial steps are not mishandled.</font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5WN8srq4vaVlsEU_W_JGKCXT5gPRIOCpBrxU9xf0m-cWarCwITWAEqy-AJlu6IaHcxsqxnfl3VqdnN6-mCSDQCzslBA8l0veUWAFa_3UsD2J5Z8PxZJkOKX0fEioGDm9J2ZFouhYS-ZA/s640/student-union-1622228-640x480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5WN8srq4vaVlsEU_W_JGKCXT5gPRIOCpBrxU9xf0m-cWarCwITWAEqy-AJlu6IaHcxsqxnfl3VqdnN6-mCSDQCzslBA8l0veUWAFa_3UsD2J5Z8PxZJkOKX0fEioGDm9J2ZFouhYS-ZA/s320/student-union-1622228-640x480.jpg" width="320" /></a><font size="5"><span><span>Usually the first notice of a discipline issue arrives via the student's official college email, with an attachment telling the student to contact the college in a few days to set up a meeting. Often this notice indicates </span></span></font><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span>that if the student fails to reply, dire consequences </span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span>may result, such as a hold on their records or a denial of class registration. There may be reference to a</span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> vague or unidentified allegation, so the student may not be sure what they are being accused of. Students should </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">not ignore this email and should set up any meeting requested.</span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><br /></div><p style="margin: 0in;"><font size="5"><span style="color: black;">As the student may have no idea why they are being investigated,</span><span> a polite inquiry should be made prior to this meeting to attempt to get more detail on th</span><span>e allegations. If the staff say "you will find out at the meeting," the student should still respectfully ask if they may be provided with information on the context and what codes are alleged to have been breached, if this was not included in the initial notice</span></font></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">The student can also request copies of any "evidence" which has been gathered and if they can obtain such prior to the initial meeting. </font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">Colleges may have a student advocate office or other similar office which they can contact at the university to get some input and advice about local practices. This may also be the time to seek input from family members, such as a student's parents (if the student is comfortable with that), or potentially other sources, to be prepared. Although legal counsel may be denied entry to the investigation meeting(s), they can be consulted outside the meeting.</font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxlZaNgmPyot-RPGTcsv-FmAK4qKCSCffMahCgqQiZvm2AViKCsRXGAxQUBUjh8Pc3HXNHo1ryEmbF2CpLhxe3-gQu6zaDsbZXT3tkj-Cs-yZEy3qtF6HAZMRaXKzQ-z4LPrp9aiiseU/s640/student-handbook-001-1566388-640x480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxlZaNgmPyot-RPGTcsv-FmAK4qKCSCffMahCgqQiZvm2AViKCsRXGAxQUBUjh8Pc3HXNHo1ryEmbF2CpLhxe3-gQu6zaDsbZXT3tkj-Cs-yZEy3qtF6HAZMRaXKzQ-z4LPrp9aiiseU/s320/student-handbook-001-1566388-640x480.jpg" width="320" /></a><span><font size="5">The student should review the college codes for all relevant areas of possible alleged breach, as well as any discipline policies the college has published. For example, at the University of California, Davis (UCD), there are many policies on their <a href="https://ossja.ucdavis.edu/policies">"Office of Student Support and Judicial Affairs" page</a>, including a link to the current policies and procedures that are applied in student discipline matters. </font></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> Not all colleges, unfortunately, have adequate information on line, or even adequate policies, but it is definitely worth the time to learn what may be out there before the meeting. </span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in; text-align: left;"><span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;">It is important to remember that whomever a student may meet with during the investigation has a lot of experience in punishing students and far more knowledge in this area, usually, than the student, so doing anything one can to get prepared is critical.</span></div><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5">At the initial meeting, the student will likely be interviewed, and will hopefully be fully informed of the allegation, context, and codes allegedly breached. The student may even be asked to admit what happened. Or, they may simply be told that the college will be investigating and will get back to them for a follow up meeting.</font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5">It is never certain what will happen with these allegations, but I have found that colleges tend to believe the accuser, not the accused student, so students should be prepared for being doubted and cast as someone who has done wrong, despite telling college staff the truth and/or providing an honest, heartfelt denial of any allegation. </font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5">Additionally, even though the staff member who interviews them may seem like a very sweet, kind, and understanding person, that is part of their method of obtaining information and data they may be able to skew or use in a discipline hearing against the student. It is best not to forget the nice person interviewing them is on the other side, likely trying to prove the student "did it," and is the one who will likely be making recommendations on what punishment the student may face.</font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5">It is a bit tricky.</font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5">University students may be able to be accompanied to this meeting by a parent or a college advocate, but it is up to the individual school on what they allow.</font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5">If faced with a surprise email from your college or university saying to "call us or else!" don't ignore it. But, do approach it in a methodical and prepared way so you can help yourself navigate these tricky waters and keep pursuing your degree.</font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5"><br /></font></span></p><p style="margin: 0in;"><span><font size="5">Best,</font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><font size="5"> </font></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><font size="5"> </font></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><font size="5">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></font></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><font size="5"><a href="http://www.edlaw4students.com/"><span>Website</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>Blog</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/michelleaball"><span>Twitter</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/EdLaw4Students"><span>Youtube</span></a><span style="color: black;">, </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Law-Office-of-Michelle-Ball/191273330901857"><span>Facebook</span></a><span style="color: black;"> <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><o:p><font size="5"> </font></o:p></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0in;"><font size="5"><span style="color: black;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span>disclaimer</span></a></font><span style="color: black;"><font size="5"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship.</font><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></p><br />Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-25206274509746255122020-05-13T13:20:00.001-07:002020-05-13T13:22:41.770-07:00Will Lack of Social Distancing Or Threats To Touch Someone Be Suspendable and Expellable Offenses When Students Return To School?<i><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Schools and students are in turmoil in California, with all pushed to distance education for fear of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVAhBfRDXec">"invisible enemy"</a> aka Coronavirus. But what about the upcoming fall and the 2020-21 schoolyear? How will students return to school in the Coronavirus "new normal" and how will school restrictions be enforced? </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Imagine kids prior normal actions at school (running, hanging out, talking, high-fiving, texting, laughing, playing sports together, walking through crowded hallways) and now imagine those actions 6 feet apart. </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">How will schools stop kids from interacting and how will they be punished if they do not socially distance? I am not looking forward to finding out.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlHy9Rd1a23m-ngWZcQyyFFFJprBbvnAz89Yk5neD50qiZOzzRsIdKmdDqHoXk6OyIAIwUD2yEeh7xMaG1itZmtq7NYB3U4sR7LcxuXFuWE-1l_DfIn64Df5HRXU3KpgKK80C6ICWD3Y/s1600/close-up-of-teenage-girl-256657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlHy9Rd1a23m-ngWZcQyyFFFJprBbvnAz89Yk5neD50qiZOzzRsIdKmdDqHoXk6OyIAIwUD2yEeh7xMaG1itZmtq7NYB3U4sR7LcxuXFuWE-1l_DfIn64Df5HRXU3KpgKK80C6ICWD3Y/s320/close-up-of-teenage-girl-256657.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">It is hard to imagine kids playing on a playground and social distancing, isn't it? Let's take a 5, 10 or even a 16 year old and try to keep them 6 feet away from their friends. How will this work? What about in physical education (PE)? Will they just jog alone or play tennis? There are innumerable questions and serious concerns on how this will be managed. It is not hard to envision a heavy type of authoritarianism will exist in schools to enforce the new standards. In this new "normal" what will schools do to stop kids who run within 6 feet of someone or who shake someone's hand? Will they be suspended, or even expelled for placing someone in theorized danger? I hope not, but I am not sure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">California students will have to navigate severe restrictions and face a new class of offenses that at this time can only be imagined, </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">such as:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Being within 6 feet of another.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Not sanitizing properly</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Threatening others with touching, spitting or breathing on them</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Lying that they have Coronavirus to intimidate and scare others</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Threatening to bring Coronavirus to school</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Touching a friend, teacher or staff member (e.g. high-fiving, hugging, poking, bumping into someone)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Touching things around campus</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Not sanitizing their desk or seat, etc. when they change classes</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Playing in groups</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Playing contact sports</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Using someone else's stuff</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Going to the bathroom when someone else is using it</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>- Sitting in the wrong seat, spot or being in a place not marked with a taped "X" </i></span></div>
<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">- Not wearing a mask (if required)</span></i><i></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">- Whispering to each other</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>- Coughing or sneezing and not covering up the cough/sneeze</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Comin</span>g to school with a fever or sick</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Not reporting when a family member is sick</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>- Posting on social media related to Coronavirus in a way that threatens students or creates a school disruption</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">There are no direct provisions in the California Education Code for suspension or expulsion for failure to social distance, or for students not waiting their turn, YET, but there are provisions in the Education Code for suspension or expulsion for other things that I fear may be used against kids. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.&lawCode=EDC"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Education Code </span>§48900</a>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">This code section allows suspension or expulsion for many things, including threatening someone, disruption/defiance, and bullying:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>A pupil shall not be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion, unless the superintendent of the school district or the principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has committed an act as defined pursuant to any of subdivisions (a) to (r), inclusive:</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>(a)(1) Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person...</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><i>(k) Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties. </i>[expulsion and suspension may be limited depending on grade level]<i>...</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(r) Engaged in an act of bullying. For purposes of this subdivision, the following terms have the following meanings:</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(1) “Bullying” means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act, and including one or more acts committed by a pupil or group of pupils as defined in Section 48900.2, 48900.3, or 48900.4, directed toward one or more pupils that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following:</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(A) Placing a reasonable pupil or pupils in fear of harm to that pupil’s or those pupils’ person or property.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(B) Causing a reasonable pupil to experience a substantially detrimental effect on the pupil’s physical or mental health.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(C) Causing a reasonable pupil to experience substantial interference with the pupil’s academic performance.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(D) Causing a reasonable pupil to experience substantial interference with the pupil’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">So, if a student threatens another student with coming close to a friend and "getting" them, will this mean they are threatening them with harm? What if a student purposefully intimidates a student who is very fearful of Coronavirus? Will this be bullying? If a student refuses to stand apart from friends trying to play, will they be sent to the office? What if they want to run around separately, but accidentally run into each other- will they be expelled for endangering someone? Is this even far-fetched in the current climate of California? Not necessarily. T</span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">his is just one more minefield they will have to navigate.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Another code section which could conceivably be twisted into a tool to punish during the Coronavirus panic is </span><a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48900.4."><span style="font-size: x-large;">Education Code</span></a></span><a href="http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&sectionNum=48900.4."><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">§</span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">48900.4</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">, which states:</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">...a pupil enrolled in any of grades 4 to 12, inclusive, may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has intentionally engaged in harassment, threats, or intimidation, directed against school district personnel or pupils, that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to have the actual and reasonably expected effect of materially disrupting classwork, creating substantial disorder, and invading the rights of either school personnel or pupils by creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">The student who threatens another daily with touching them, with being next to them on the bus, with breathing on them, could conceivably have this code thrown at them to punish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">What about <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=48900.7.&lawCode=EDC">Education <span style="background-color: transparent;">§</span>48900.7</a>? This section allows suspension or expulsion for making threats of grave harm which can be immediately carried out:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(a) ... a pupil may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has made terroristic threats against school officials or school property, or both.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">(b) For the purposes of this section, “terroristic threat” shall include any statement, whether written or oral, by a person who willfully threatens to commit a crime which will result in death, great bodily injury to another person, or property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1,000), with the specific intent that the statement is to be taken as a threat, even if there is no intent of actually carrying it out, which, on its face and under the circumstances in which it is made, is so unequivocal, unconditional, immediate, and specific as to convey to the person threatened, a gravity of purpose and an immediate prospect of execution of the threat, and thereby causes that person reasonably to be in sustained fear for his or her own safety or for his or her immediate family’s safety, or for the protection of school district property, or the personal property of the person threatened or his or her immediate family</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">One can only imagine a student saying he spit on his hands and rubbed all the doors and handles, or who did not wash his hands (or gloves if required) before he came to class, or who tells many people he has Coronavirus and will purposefully make the school sick (despite not having it), being accused of terroristic threats. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">As I frequently see kids unfairly suspended and expelled, this is just one more concern I have when kids return to school under California's strict Coronavirus control measures. </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">Ultimately, it will be up to the reasoned application of discipline rules to students by school administrators and the strong advocacy of parents. Let's hope schools use their discretion to discipline wisely in the "new normal." </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">We shall see.</span><br />
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Best,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Please see my <a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a></span><span style="font-size: medium;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-2495930925024549582020-05-05T17:16:00.000-07:002020-05-05T17:21:24.762-07:00Eight Things NOT To Do At A School Expulsion Hearing<i><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since 1995</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">School expulsions can be devastating for students,</span> emotionally and otherwise, ending up with kids sent to a continuation school and damaging college entrance chances. It is important to know what NOT to do when parents are fighting for their child's future at an expulsion hearing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01H-b51G5FeGMuPpww1DqRsAxBjB-BcaXBP2e-4dqAA57BPemyk9qtlVqqRXgVNdIPbtKYwbadvFEOcBbXXuRiqfVGhGSAsb1fMAUwLasVyduca17twP4HE5aQKU9tw3GwVZ2VReidLY/s1600/maxwell-nelson-vbj1mKlJBzg-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg01H-b51G5FeGMuPpww1DqRsAxBjB-BcaXBP2e-4dqAA57BPemyk9qtlVqqRXgVNdIPbtKYwbadvFEOcBbXXuRiqfVGhGSAsb1fMAUwLasVyduca17twP4HE5aQKU9tw3GwVZ2VReidLY/s320/maxwell-nelson-vbj1mKlJBzg-unsplash.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Here are some things parents should NOT do at a school expulsion hearing:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1) <b style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Consider not allowing</b><u><b> </b></u><b><u>your child to testify if they have not already confessed.</u></b> Make the school district prove their case, and don't do it for them. The school district has the burden of proof and no child is mandated to testify. The testimony decision is highly fact dependent and there is no black and white rule. Whether the student speaks at hearing may depend on the level of proof the school has, whether the parents will appeal, if the hearing will involve simply a "mercy plea," and other factors. </span>Caution is advised in making this decision.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">2) <b><u>Do not forget to object to improper evidence.</u></b> If the school district attempts to admit evidence which should not be allowed into the hearing (e.g. evidence from another student who was not there), parents must not stay silent. Rather, parents should speak up and ask for it to be disallowed, or if the item was already admitted into evidence, have it immediately taken out of the record.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">3) <b><u> Do not get emotional at the hearing if possible.</u></b> If a parent is the one making the arguments at the expulsion hearing, he or she should attempt to keep strong emotions under control, particularly anger. Parents don't want to alienate whomever is judging the child's expulsion matter, so logic and reason should be used to defend the student. Parents should never yell or raise voices, regardless of the frustration level at the hearing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">4) <u style="font-weight: bold;">Do not forget to prepare opening and closing statements and witness questions.</u> Parents usually can make an opening and closing statement, plus question any and all witnesses at the hearing. However, in the heat of the moment, parents may forget something critical, so a good outline should be developed with all legal and factual arguments as well as questions for anticipated witnesses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">5) <b><u>Do not forget to submit documents.</u></b> Parents should submit character letters in support of their child, along with any other documentary evidence which proves innocence. Parents may also want to consider submitting a document which persuasively argues their defenses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">6) <b><u>Do not take it personally. </u></b> The school expulsion hearing may feel personal, but don't take it that way. Act professionally at all times or the review panel may tune you out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">7) <b style="text-decoration: underline;">Do not forget the district is not being "nice."</b> Although everyone on the other side may be outwardly polite, the school and district are trying to expel the student. If they were not, they would have dropped or negotiated the matter before the hearing. Parents cannot go into an expulsion hearing naively believing that everyone will understand once they get there, or they will win due to sympathy for their child. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">8) <b><u>Don't forget to bring witnesses to support your case.</u></b> Parents should bring students or others to the hearing to support the student's defense via live testimony. If parents cannot get a hold of witnesses, subpoenas can be sought from the district prior to the hearing.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Parents need a little luck and good management skills when battling the lions trying to expel a child. If not, a school expulsion can leave an expelled child adrift and with a black mark they may never get over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Best,<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">Please see my <a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/">disclaimer</a> on the bottom of my blog page. This is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is formed by this posting, etc. etc.! <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>This blog may not be reproduced without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Published 2/5/12, updated 5/5/20</span></span></span></span></div>
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</span>Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171209450268411034.post-67996857795666186112020-04-27T10:34:00.001-07:002020-04-27T10:37:41.517-07:00Online Learning Opens Door For More Student Punishment If Students And Parents Are Not Careful<br />
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<i><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">By Michelle Ball, California Education Attorney for Students since
1995<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p>As students have been pushed to online learning by Coronavirus, everything may outwardly seem very safe and innocent to parents, with kids attending distance classes quietly. However, online school creates new opportunities for students to be disciplined by their school, and even suspended or expelled.</o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_TGm_rM7ZfFT5Y_FZcoSmFemrnq3h0oVlTP7LnhyphenhyphenwkxBlsxHVPFrKPxTcEDMxeGX3kKk22TsR_pmT0vAzOA2dWL8gH0qhbeiG8QYPJRNhEJlK3O79CdBltffqvKXXPsaKfZ7ZOR1k2c/s1600/e-learning-3734521_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="640" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2_TGm_rM7ZfFT5Y_FZcoSmFemrnq3h0oVlTP7LnhyphenhyphenwkxBlsxHVPFrKPxTcEDMxeGX3kKk22TsR_pmT0vAzOA2dWL8gH0qhbeiG8QYPJRNhEJlK3O79CdBltffqvKXXPsaKfZ7ZOR1k2c/s320/e-learning-3734521_640.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p>Recently, students, in addition to random hackers, have been attending online classes and (intentionally or unintentionally) making rude comments, playing inappropriate music, using fake names that a teacher may say (unaware of the rude context), playing pranks on their classes or instructors and causing other havoc which may not have occurred had they been in a "real" classroom. Students have also appeared scantily clothed or even nude. Some have inappropriate material, purposefully or not so purposefully, in the background of their camera which could get them in trouble, like drug paraphernalia, or inappropriate language. Being online suddenly opens up our homes to the government, in the form of teachers and school officials.</o:p></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Where before a rude joke was just to a classmate privately, that joke may now be broadcast to the entire class. And students now suddenly have new opportunities to gain online fame for making fools of their teachers or being the most outrageous troublemaker. Maybe before the stay-at-home order, the same student would never have imagined doing these things, but now they may feel more safe or untouchable as heck, they are already at home anyway so what would a suspension matter? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Students forced online who cause havoc will probably receive swifter and more punitive punishments, with no or abbreviated "hearings," and no ability to properly defend themselves in person, which is a distinct disadvantage.</span><span style="font-size: 18.6667px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 18.6667px;">Additionally, now there may be an undeniable electronic record of their conduct, making it easier for school administrators to punish. Suddenly a student with a perfect record may have a suspension they have to bring up on their college applications, all because they were stupid when they got stuck at home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">All school rules continue to apply online, regardless of where the student is. Parents should discuss with their kids how each school rule applies and work out how NOT to misspeak or break a rule. This may mean students ensure their name is the RIGHT name, not a prank name, before logging on, that students don't make inappropriate comments during their sessions, that nothing improper appears within view of their camera and that they mute their microphones and turn off the music when attending classes online. Students should wear proper attire, not have drug paraphernalia in their environment, or other evidence that could be misconstrued in some way (e.g. as a threat, weapon, or illegal substance, etc.) and just make sure they look at their surroundings from the view of the camera. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Students and parents should also be mindful that other people and conversations in their home may be seen or heard during class sessions, which is not always a good thing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Parents should take care of their kids now, as always, yet increase their scrutiny of what their kids are doing in this "new" school environment and beware of the rampant opportunities for students to "misbehave" (in the school's eyes) in new and novel ways during their enforced home schooling. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt;">Best,</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Michelle Ball<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Education Law Attorney <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">LAW OFFICE OF MICHELLE BALL <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">717 K Street, Suite 228 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Sacramento, CA 95814 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Phone: 916-444-9064 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Email:help@edlaw4students.com <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Fax: 916-444-1209<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;">Please see my </span><a href="http://edlaw4students.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt;">disclaimer</span></a><span style="color: black; font-size: 14.0pt;"> on the bottom of my blog page. This
is legal information, not legal advice and no attorney-client relationship is
formed by this posting, etc. etc.! This blog may not be reproduced
without permission from the author and proper attribution of authorship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Michelle Ball, Attorney for Studentshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08351924790728083163noreply@blogger.com