Student Discipline

Description:
The basic premise of the Student Code of Conduct is the idea of due process. In essence, a “Due Process Hearing for Student Discipline” is a continuation of the discipline process that starts with the classroom teacher.

As student conduct may deteriorate, administrative (assistant principal or principal) intervention and action may become necessary in order to correct behavior. In accordance with the provisions of the Student Code of Conduct, school administrators suspend students up to ten school days for a variety of offenses that go against school rules. However, when an administrator deems it necessary to suspend for any period longer than ten days, the principal must petition the Department of Special Programs and Student Services for a Disciplinary Hearing to ensure due process and fairness.

In order to maintain fairness in decisions regarding student discipline and to ensure impartiality, a third party hearing is convened under the auspices of the Student Services Department to hear the particulars of a case to determine responsibility and to decide proper disciplinary action.