The West Virginia House has passed a bill that could have a massive impact on the way elementary schools in the state can discipline students. This legislation gives elementary school educators the ability to remove students from classrooms if those students have been deemed ‘disruptive.' 

The intent behind the bill is likely to create a more conducive and safe learning environment for everyone. However, the implications of this bill could be disastrous for those allegedly-disruptive students. If you're worried that your school is taking action against your child in a way that could disrupt their future, don't wait—call 888.535.3686 or fill out our form today to get in contact with the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm immediately.  

What Are the Underlying Concerns with the Discipline Bill?  

Those concerned about this bill are wondering about the impact it may have on the fairness and inclusivity of our educational practices.  

If we look at the data, there are some alarming trends to consider. Students in foster care, children with disabilities, low-income students, and Black students face suspension more often than their peers. By giving teachers the authority to suspend students when they're “disruptive”—a potentially subjective measure—West Virginia may be making it easier to push vulnerable students even further into the margins.  

Does This Bill Fail Our Students?  

Here's a fact that's potentially even scarier:  

One of the provisions of this new bill allows law enforcement to get involved if a child is suspended (again, for being allegedly disruptive) and their parents aren't able to come to pick them up in a timely manner. 

If you're a parent, you know that dropping everything to pick up your child from school isn't always easy and may not be possible—especially if the reason you're being summoned doesn't seem critical. The fact that your school could call law enforcement, however, seems to make it clear that the emphasis here is on penalizing families instead of figuring out solutions that work for everyone.  

Further, let's take a quick look at some proposed solutions for students who are removed from the classroom environment. Each state has its own version of alternative learning settings for disciplinary or remedial purposes, but high-quality options are hardly available in every single county across the nation. This leaves students who have been labeled as disruptive or difficult to educate without their required educational support.  

Unfortunately, academic disciplinary systems can move fast. If your student is facing a suspension, particularly in West Virginia, it's time to call in the Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team.  

Here's How the Lento Law Firm Can Help Your Family 

For years, the Lento Law Firm has assisted elementary students throughout the nation and in West Virginia as they've tackled labyrinthine school adjudication processes. We'll help you, too, as you compile evidence, create a strong defense, and tirelessly advocate for your student's rights.  

Contact us today by calling 888.535.3686 or fill out this brief form to tell us more about your case.