So, we just found out that my son was sent an inappropriate text last January, and he shared it with a couple of friends. This didn’t happen on school grounds or during school hours, and no one even reported it until a student mentioned it in class last week. The school investigated and now they want to suspend him for a long time. Can they really do that? I’m worried about the school they’re sending him to… it’s so far away and has awful reviews. Anyone know what’s going on here or have experience with something like this?
Wow, that’s really tough. I think it all depends on the school’s policies. Did they mention anything specific in their handbook about when they can take action? I know some schools have rules about dealing with stuff that happens outside of school, but I’m not sure how far they can go retroactively.
@Shawn
Yeah, they mentioned something about sexting and that the usual punishment is expulsion. But they made an exception for him and want to send him to an alternate school. That place is awful though, and I really don’t want him going there.
@Shawn
I had a similar issue with my school a while ago. It sounds like they might be going by the severity of the situation. Maybe it’s worth checking if there’s a statute of limitations for school discipline in your state?
That’s insane they’re making an exception for the punishment. Did they say why they’re still punishing him if it was so long ago? I mean, if it wasn’t reported at the time, I feel like they should’ve just let it go.
@Blair
They said it’s because of the nature of the offense. But yeah, it feels a bit unfair. Why wait so long to act on it?
I think if it happened a while ago, they might be breaking some rules. It’s worth looking up how long they can actually wait before disciplining. If it was a really big thing, they might have more leeway, though.
@Nardo
Yeah, I’m trying to figure out if they can actually do this. I feel like it’s been way too long for them to step in now, but IDK.
Have you looked at your state’s law on this? I had a friend in a similar situation, and the lawyer said the school can take action based on their own policies, but they have to follow certain procedures. Like, the student has the right to appeal, which is good, so maybe try fighting it there.
@Beck
Yeah, we’ve already submitted an appeal letter, and there’s a hearing next week. Fingers crossed it works out!
In Louisiana, I don’t think there’s a statute of limitations for school discipline. That could be why they’re still going after it. You might want to ask an education lawyer to help you out with the appeal. Good luck!
@Vern
Thanks, I’ll definitely look into that. We’re trying to find a lawyer now to help with the appeal process.