New Jersey Middle and Elementary Education Issues
As a parent, you work hard to help your child thrive at school. Whether your child is academically minded or they primarily benefit from the social aspects of their experience, there's no question that their education is important to their development. As a result, you may have understandable concerns if your child seems to be struggling. For example, if your child is facing discipline or is not getting access to necessary resources and support, you might be anxious about how the situation is affecting them now and will affect them moving forward.
You are your child's greatest advocate, but that doesn't mean you can't benefit from guidance and assistance as you speak up for their interests. The stakes for your child's situation are high, so you may need to seek professional insight to protect their rights and bright future.
New Jersey Middle and Elementary School Academic Misconduct Charges
Middle school and older elementary school students risk short-term suspension, long-term suspension, and even expulsion if they are accused of serious violations of academic conduct expectations. New Jersey Administrative Code Section 6A:16-7.2-7.4 outlines a student's due process rights in these situations, although individual school districts determine the offenses that may result in these forms of discipline. With so much freedom given to individual districts, students facing academic conduct accusations in one community may experience much harsher treatment than those in another.
New Jersey Middle and Elementary School Behavioral Misconduct Charges
Accusations of behavioral misconduct can impact students of any age. New Jersey Administrative Code Section 6A:16-7.1 requires that each school district establish and implement a code of conduct that students must honor. These codes of conduct must describe behaviors that could lead to suspensions or expulsion.
Trenton High School, for example, provides its students with a handbook that details dozens of prohibited activities that could lead to suspension or expulsion over the course of six pages. Although younger students are less likely to engage in some of these prohibited activities, a school district's prohibitions tend to apply to students of all ages.
New Jersey Middle and Elementary School Academic Progression Issues
The New Jersey Administrative Code compels districts to promote high academic standards and prevent the occurrence of problem behaviors. Although the state's Administrative Code does not specifically require districts to discipline children for failing to progress, individual districts can interpret the Code's mandates in this way. The New Jersey Commissioner of Education has a record of supporting the consequences imposed by districts when students fail to perform or progress as expected.
New Jersey Middle and Elementary School Disability Issues
When young New Jersey students need disability accommodations, their school and broader district need to comply with state and federal laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and New Jersey Administrative Code Section 6A:14. For example, students with disabilities are entitled to free, appropriately-individualized public education (FAPE) and an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to guide their progress.
Due to the unique challenges faced by many students with disabilities, the disciplinary due process rights for these students are different than those of other students, and there are different rules for discipline. The specialized approach that districts must take when disciplining students with disabilities is detailed in New Jersey Administrative Code Section 6A:14-2.8.
New Jersey Education Advisor Services
Disciplinary action can alter a child's experience in a single educational environment and ultimately influence their educational experience. The Lento Law Firm understands how consequential disciplinary action against a young student can be. If you entrust your child's case to our care, we'll do our utmost to ensure that their rights remain protected throughout the disciplinary process and that they are treated fairly. While no law firm can guarantee the outcome of a matter, know that we'll work hard to ensure a favorable outcome on behalf of your student.
The Lento Law Firm's Education Law Team can assist you as you assess the accusations that your child is facing, their due process rights, and their circumstances overall. Once you're ready to make an informed decision about how to proceed, we'll help you craft and execute a strategy designed to advance your child's rights and interests. Depending on the circumstances, we may negotiate with those involved, pursue informal resolutions, or file formal appeals. At every step in the process, you, your child, and your case will be treated with consideration, care, and respect.
Where the Lento Law Firm Can Help
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team practices nationwide. As a result of the broad experience that the firm brings to the table, we're in a position to represent your elementary or middle school student regardless of where you reside. Whether your family lives in New York or New Mexico, North Carolina or North Dakota, the dedicated members of Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team can provide your family with the support it needs during this challenging time.
Student Defense in New Jersey School Districts
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team is available to represent the interests of students all across New Jersey. From Jersey City to Camden, Toms River to Cape May, if your child needs strong support, our firm can assertively advocate on behalf of their present interests and future potential.
Premier New Jersey Education Attorney-Advisor
Regardless of which school district has jurisdiction over your child's education, the Lento Law Firm's compassionate and creative Education Law Team can assist your middle or elementary school student as they navigate misconduct-related challenges. Your child's interests are too precious to entrust them to anyone but truly knowledgeable and skilled advocates. Call 888.535.3686 or go online now to learn more. We look forward to speaking with you.
