I’m dealing with a tricky situation at my kids’ school. I asked to keep my 5-year-old twins in the same class, but the school split them up despite my request. I mentioned California Education Code 37617, which says siblings should be placed together unless they’re in special ed or the parent requests otherwise. The principal claims the code doesn’t apply because the school isn’t year-round. Has anyone dealt with this or know if there’s another rule for traditional schools?
That’s frustrating! Did they give any specific reason for separating them? Seems like a weird hill to die on for the school.
Vance said:
That’s frustrating! Did they give any specific reason for separating them? Seems like a weird hill to die on for the school.
Yeah, they said it’s in their ‘best interest for growth and success.’ No assessments or anything, just their opinion.
Vance said:
That’s frustrating! Did they give any specific reason for separating them? Seems like a weird hill to die on for the school.
Best interest, huh? Sounds like they’re guessing. Did you get that reasoning in writing?
Wait, what’s EC 37617? Never heard of it before.
Shannon said:
Wait, what’s EC 37617? Never heard of it before.
It’s a California education code about year-round schools. It says siblings should stay together unless parents want them apart.
Shannon said:
Wait, what’s EC 37617? Never heard of it before.
Ah, so it doesn’t apply if the school’s not year-round? That’s rough.
If they’re not following a year-round calendar, EC 37617 won’t help. But emotional distress could be a strong argument. Have you documented your son’s behavior?
Fife said:
If they’re not following a year-round calendar, EC 37617 won’t help. But emotional distress could be a strong argument. Have you documented your son’s behavior?
I’ve started keeping notes. He had a meltdown on the first day and ran out of the classroom. It’s been rough.
Fife said:
If they’re not following a year-round calendar, EC 37617 won’t help. But emotional distress could be a strong argument. Have you documented your son’s behavior?
That’s heartbreaking. Maybe talk to a child advocate? They can help push the school to take his emotional well-being seriously.
Have you considered escalating this to the district or state? They might have more sway than the principal.
Merritt said:
Have you considered escalating this to the district or state? They might have more sway than the principal.
Not yet, but I’m thinking about it. Just not sure how much more I can do without legal help.
Merritt said:
Have you considered escalating this to the district or state? They might have more sway than the principal.
Escalating can work, but maybe try mediation first? Sometimes schools backpedal if they know parents are serious.