Expelled for Smoking Pot: What Parents Need to Know
Most private schools have Codes of Discipline that will not tolerate substance abuse. Smoking pot or drinking alcohol are common examples of substance abuse. I am bringing this up because many parents think that they can appeal disciplinary action a school brings against students. The problem is that students attending a private school are covered by what is known as contract law. In a public school they would have rights. That is not the case in a private school. Students' rights are clearly spelled out in the contract parents and the school sign.
Here, then, are some common questions parents have about private school discipline and how infractions of the school's discipline code are usually handled.
Parent: My child has been expelled for smoking pot at their private school. I'm shocked and don't understand why the consequences are so severe. Can you explain?
School: We understand this is a difficult situation. Private schools have strict policies regarding substance abuse, including marijuana use. When students break these rules, they face immediate consequences, often including expulsion. This is because private schools operate under contract law, which allows them to take action in disciplinary matters compared to what can happen in public schools.
Basically, it means that if you go to a private school, you are not covered by the same laws as you were when you attended public school. Private schools are covered by something called contract law. It means that schools have the right, and obligation, to act as legal guardians for students to ensure their wellbeing. Practically speaking, that also means you'd better follow the rules, particularly the ones which have serious penalties for any infraction. Participating in activities like hazing, cheating, sexual misconduct, substance abuse and so on, will land you in serious trouble. Mess with these and you will find yourself suspended or expelled. You don't want those kinds of entries on your school record when it comes time to apply to college. Source: Thought.co
Parent: But why is the punishment so harsh? It seems excessive for a teenage mistake.
School: We recognize it may seem harsh, but there are several reasons for this approach. First, it's about maintaining a safe environment for all students. Second, it's a crucial life lesson: actions have consequences. In private schools, we emphasize teaching ethics and morality not just in the classroom but in everyday life. Breaking major rules like this undermines the school community's safety and values.
This video offers a look at Beaver Country Day School in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
Parent: I see. But my child claims they didn't know the consequences would be so severe. Is that possible?
School: It's highly unlikely. We take great care in explaining our rules and their consequences during orientation at the beginning of each academic year. The rules and disciplinary standards are also published in the school handbook and discussed regularly. Your child would have been well aware of the potential consequences of their actions.
Parent: What about due process? Don't students have rights?
School: This is where private schools differ significantly from public schools. In public schools, students have constitutional rights that require due process for disciplinary actions. In private schools, parents sign a contract that explains what rights each party has. We can immediately act based on our published and contractually agreed-upon disciplinary standards.
Parent: This expulsion will severely impact my child's academic record. What can we do?
School: We understand your concern. An expulsion does create a significant mark on a student's record. Other schools, including colleges, may inquire about the reason for leaving the previous school. It's essential to be honest about what happened and focus on how your child has learned and grown from this experience.
This video offers a look at Benet Academy in Lisle, Illinois.
Parent: How can we prevent this from happening again in the future?
School: Prevention is key. As parents, you must have ongoing conversations with your children about major issues like drugs, alcohol, and peer pressure. Watch informative shows together and discuss the topics they raise. We can help prevent such behavior with parental interaction, love, and quality time. At our school, we also have proactive awareness programs, seminars, and discussion groups to educate students about the risks of substance abuse and other challenging topics.
Parent: What's my role as a parent in supporting the school's policies?
School: Your role is crucial. We encourage parents to be vigilant and support the school's Code of Conduct. If you have concerns about our policies, it's best to discuss them with school administrators, not with your child. Consistency between home and school reinforces the importance of following rules. Remember, as parents, we're ultimately responsible for our children's actions. Setting the right example consistently is vital because children often do as we do, not just as we say.
Parent: This has been informative. Any final advice?
School: Yes, remember that discipline in a private school setting is an ongoing process. We have what we call "A Constellation of Advisors" - adults throughout the school community who guide and remind students about rules and expectations. Discipline is a community affair. It's a collective effort to create a safe, ethical environment for all students. If you find that you genuinely can't accept how our school operates, you always have the option to find another school that aligns better with your values. However, changing how our school operates is not an option. Ultimately, this situation, while challenging, can be a powerful learning experience for your child about responsibility, consequences, and personal growth.
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