Oklahoma Middle and Elementary Education Issues
Everyone knows how important it is for a child to thrive in school. It boosts their self-esteem, helps develop their social skills, and improves their potential success. Unfortunately, elementary and middle school students can experience challenges that will negatively impact their future. If you are notified that your child allegedly misbehaved at school in some way, is failing their classes, or is not receiving the necessary support they need to succeed, it is crucial you reach out to an attorney for help immediately.
The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team knows what your child is up against and will work tirelessly to ensure they get the best possible outcome for their case. Call 888-535-3686 today or reach out online for help.
Oklahoma Middle and Elementary School Academic Misconduct Charges
It doesn't matter the age; any student can get involved in academic misconduct issues. In fact, according to the Oklahoma Education Code, elementary and middle schools have the authority to develop disciplinary rules and procedures for instances of academic dishonesty, like cheating and plagiarism. Moreover, the code allows schools to suspend or expel students for any behaviors that disrupt the learning environment, school activities, or defies school officials.
The Byng Public School district, for example, maintains a series of policies that outline which punishments a student might receive depending on the nature of their misconduct. In cases of academic misconduct, the school district is authorized to reduce a student's grade or, if combined with other misconduct, suspend, expel, or remove the student to an alternative education program.
Oklahoma Middle and Elementary School Behavioral Misconduct Charges
Some students may face behavioral misconduct allegations instead of, in addition to academic misconduct issues. According to the Oklahoma Education Code, schools have the authority to punish students for certain behavioral issues, including refusing to follow classroom rules, disrespecting teachers or staff, intimidating other students, destroying property on campus, and bringing a weapon to school. Of course, there are several other instances of misconduct that could fall under these categories, so it is best to become familiar with the specific code of conduct rules at your child's school.
For instance, in the Goodwell Public School district, administrators and school officials have the right to punish students for misbehaving. The punishment, though, will depend on the nature of the misconduct. So, if a student refuses to follow classroom rules or fails to comply with a teacher's reasonable request, they will be given after-school detention. However, if they physically attack another student or staff member with a harmful weapon or sell illegal drugs on campus, they will be suspended from school for at least five days or more.
Oklahoma Middle and Elementary School Academic Progression Issues
You might not think that middle and elementary school students should be punished for academic progression issues, but it is not unheard of. Usually, though, the punishment is simply being held back a grade or forced to take a certain subject with a more remedial class. However, the Oklahoma Education Code states that students can be removed from their classrooms and placed into an alternative education setting. In the alternative education setting, the student is expected to complete the work they are missing and catch up with their classmates prior to returning to class. Unfortunately, many alternative education programs offer students and their families more issues than benefits, and any recommendation to one should be scrutinized intensely.
In the Oklahoma City Public School district, the code of conduct explains that students who are consistently tardy, truant, or having difficulty turning in or passing their homework and exams can be punished. Generally, these students will receive anything from parent-teacher conferences and loss of privileges to out-of-school suspension for over six days.
Oklahoma Middle and Elementary School Disability Issues
According to the federal Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), all students have the right to a free appropriate education (FAPE). That is, if your child has a recognized disability, under federal law, they have a right to a public education, which includes reasonable accommodations. To ensure this occurs, Oklahoma state laws have adopted the federal Individualized Education Plan (IEP) mandate for their students with disabilities.
Oklahoma's Special Education Services office in their Department of Education helps all of the school districts understand their many obligations to students with disabilities. When creating and maintaining an IEP, your school must not only offer accommodations for your student but also ensure they are implemented every day. Examples of accommodations include having a designated note-taker for your child, access to medications and hygiene aids, modified lighting, sound protection, assistive devices, and screen readers.
That being said, if a student with a disability is accused of misconduct, the school is required, under federal law, to conduct a manifestation determination as part of their investigation and disciplinary procedures.
Oklahoma Education Attorney Services
At Lento Law Firm, our Education Law Team understands the challenges you and your child are facing. They will be able to review the issue and come up with a strategic defense that will ensure your child is not being unnecessarily punished. Moreover, they will advocate for you and your child with the school, acting as a liaison between you two and helping to ease some of the stress and overwhelm from your shoulders.
Where the Lento Law Firm Can Help
The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team represents students all over the country who have been accused of misconduct, including throughout the different regions of Oklahoma.
Student Defense in Northwest Oklahoma School Districts
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team can help students across Northwest Oklahoma, including those in Texas, Beaver, and Cimaron school districts.
Student Defense in Central California School Districts
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team is available across Central Oklahoma, from Logan, Canadian, and Kingfisher Public School districts to the Cleveland, Seminole, and Hughes Public School Districts.
Student Defense in Northeast Oklahoma School District
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team is available across Northeast Oklahoma from the Ottawa and Delaware Public School districts to the Woods, Alfalfa, and Major Public School districts.
Student Defense in Southeast Oklahoma School District
In the Southeast Oklahoma region, Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team can help middle and elementary school students in such districts as the Atoka, Pushmataha, Choctaw, McCurtain, and Le Flore Public School districts.
Student Defense in Southwest Oklahoma School District
Lento Law Firm can also help students in the Southwest Oklahoma region, including those in the Greer, Jackson, Tillman, and Cotton counties.
Premier Oklahoma Education Attorney Advisors
It does not matter what part of Oklahoma you live in. If your elementary or middle school child is facing disciplinary action, the Lento Law Firm's Education Law Team can help. Call 888-535-3686 today or visit us online to schedule your consultation.
