Student Suspension Due Process

Student Suspension Due Process

Review the school board policy and student handbook of your local public school site or district for information regarding their policies on short- and long-term suspensions of students. You may also obtain this information by interviewing an administrator at your chosen site.

Write a 500 word summarizing:

1. The due process requirements prior to a short-term and a long-term suspension of a student at your local site or district.
2. Are the due process procedures for a short-term and a long-term suspension of a student the same or different?
3. Are these requirements consistent with Goss v. Lopez? Support your position with examples from case law, the U.S. Constitution, or other readings.

Memphis-Shelby County Schools district

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Student Suspension Due Process

Due Process Requirements in MSCS for Short‑Term and Long‑Term Suspensions

In Memphis‑Shelby County Schools, short‑term suspensions (0–10 days) are governed by policies aligned with Goss v. Lopez standards. According to MSCS Student Conduct policy, administrators must immediately notify parents or guardians—verbally or in writing—of the student’s misconduct and suspension reason. The student must be informed of the charges, questioned about the incident, and given an opportunity to explain their side of the story before removal, unless there is an emergency or immediate threat (e.g., danger to persons or property) BoardDocs+12Course Sidekick+12CliffsNotes+12.

For long‑term suspensions or expulsions (more than 10 consecutive days or cumulative 15 days in one month), the district requires a formal due process procedure. The student and parent/guardian must receive written notice of the right to appeal, the charges, and the scheduled hearing. Appeals must be filed within five days, and the hearing must be held within ten days. The student has the right to present evidence, call witnesses, and be represented. High-stakes infractions (e.g., weapons, serious assault) trigger a mandated safety assessment and manifestation determination for special education students BoardDocsSafe Supportive Learning.

Comparison: Are Procedures Same or Different?

Due process requirements differ between short‑ and…