One of the top stressors that parents can face is finding out that their child has been expelled from school. Many parents face this difficulty; for every 476 students enrolled in school each year, one is expelled, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. In a large high school with more than 2,000 students, four or five students might be expelled each year, and some schools have even higher numbers. If your child committed an expellable offense, help him take responsibility. If you believe your child has been unjustly accused, you can make your concerns known.
Step 1
Realize that children make their own choices. You cannot control what your child chooses to do in school. Do not waste valuable energy blaming yourself; you'll need to focus your efforts on finding a way to help your child correct his behavior and continue his education.
Step 2
Review your child's Individualized Education Plan and Behavior Intervention Plan if your child is in a special education program. Go to the manifestation determination hearing that takes place before the expulsion hearing and ensure that the school followed the procedures delineated in your child's special education paperwork. If not, it might be that your child's behavior was related to his disability and an expulsion longer than 10 days might not be appropriate.
Step 3
Attend the expulsion hearing, and bring a third party who can serve as an advocate for your child's interests. Bring your own tape recorder, because the school will record expulsion proceedings so you need your own copy of the proceedings.
Step 4
Ask the principal any questions that you have about the expulsion. Get a copy of all related paperwork. The length of the expulsion and the reason for the expulsion should be very clear. If you do not agree with the expulsion, clearly state during the expulsion hearing that you wish to appeal the expulsion and ask for the paperwork and contacts necessary to do so.
Step 5
Talk to the school counselor about whether the school provides a way for your child to earn credits during the period of expulsion. The school is not required to provide work during an expulsion, but many choose to do so. Ask about online coursework that students can do at home; in many states it is possible for your child to get credits through an online school district. Homeschooling also might be an option. If your child has been assigned to an alternative placement, make an intake appointment for you and your child.
Step 6
Set clear expectations for your child. If he will be working at home during the period of his expulsion, make it clear that he will not be able to play video games, hang out with friends or do other things that could turn the expulsion into a reward. Arrange for a friend or neighbor to check in on your child at random periods during the day.
Things You'll Need
- Tape recorder
- Blank tape
