Can a school suspend my child without a hearing?
My daughter was suspended for five days after an argument with another student. We were told by phone and nobody asked for her side of the story. Is that allowed?
1 lawyer answer
Public schools usually must give students some basic fairness before suspension — often at least notice of what they are accused of and a chance to respond. For short suspensions, this can be quite informal. Longer suspensions and expulsions typically require more formal procedures, such as a hearing.
The exact rules come from state law and the district’s code of conduct, so start by asking the school for the written discipline policy and any incident report. If your daughter has a disability, additional protections may apply when discipline removes her from school for a significant number of days.
Ask in writing for a meeting, request that the record reflect her account, and ask how to appeal the decision.
This is general information, not legal advice — speak to a licensed lawyer about your situation.
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