Children in Connecticut can be expelled from school for any number of reasons, including nonviolent infractions like breaking a school rule or causing disruptions. If your child received a suspension and notice of an expulsion hearing, you need to act quickly to gather evidence and build a case on their behalf. The state's educational laws require that the hearing take place within 11 days of the suspension, and the hearing will be your only opportunity to show your child's side of the story.  

What Do Parents Need to Know About School Expulsions in Connecticut?

What happens during an expulsion hearing? 

An expulsion hearing is a legal proceeding in front of three or more members of the Board of Education. The school will first present all the evidence they've gathered in support of an expulsion. They might include school records or written statements from teachers or witnesses of the event, or ask witnesses to testify in person. After the school's presentation, it will be your turn to provide a rebuttal. You can present documents, written statements, and witness testimonies to defend your child's actions. At the end of the hearing, both sides can make a closing statement before the Board makes their decision. 

What does "zero-tolerance" mean? 

Under a zero-tolerance policy, any student who has a weapon on school grounds or behaves violently is automatically referred for expulsion, even if the child is in kindergarten. However, research from the American Psychological Association Zero Tolerance Task Force shows these policies have little to no impact on reducing school violence. Instead, they increase the number of students who are expelled and drop out, setting off a chain of events that prevent kids from learning and socializing with their peers. 

If a child has a toy weapon or carries a knife onto school grounds, even unintentionally, it's grounds for automatic referral for expulsion.  

What do I need to prepare for the hearing? 

As soon as you receive notice, ask the school for your child's academic and disciplinary records, written statements that will be presented at the hearing, and a list of witnesses who plan to speak. You should also create your own list of possible witnesses, including coaches, religious leaders, and other community members outside your family who could testify on your child's behalf. 

What happens if my child is expelled?  

An expulsion can last anywhere from 11 days to a full academic year. The Board might also decide to enforce a readmission plan, which means the student is expelled indefinitely until they meet established criteria, like counseling, community service, or treatment for substance abuse. 

During their expulsion, your child will also need to complete an alternative education program to continue their studies and remain on-track for graduation.  

An expulsion can have long-lasting repercussions on a child's life, and it will affect their ability to receive an education, graduate from high school, go to college, and launch their career. If you're concerned that your child could be expelled, a lawyer with experience in educational law can help refute or minimize the sentence. The Law Offices of Conti, Levy and Salerno, LLC in Torrington, CT, is passionate about advocating for kids and will help you navigate the complicated system of academic discipline. To learn more about educational law, visit their website or call (860) 482-4451 today to schedule a free consultation.