A MESSAGE FROM THE WHITBECKBENNETT FAMILY
Family, fall, and football. This can only mean one thing; school is back in session for the year. As we all resume our familiar routines, unfortunately, the back-to-school memories of pencils and blackboards have, in some cases, been replaced with confusion and anxiety.
At Whitbeck Bennett, we are proud to represent parents, students, and school employees in all matters related to public education. Recently, a blog post by our Education Consultant, Debbie Rose, provided a list of steps that should be taken if you are trying to resolve a conflict for your student. These steps are listed below:
What is the first step I should take if my student has a conflict in their school? Contact the teacher, or school as soon as you understand the situation. Gather as much information as you can, to have an informed discussion.
How can I prepare for that conversation? Review any policies and procedures that you can find on the school’s website, or that have been sent home with your student. This will prepare you to have an informed discussion.
What can I do during that initial conversation to assist my student? Keep good records. Document all communications and take notes pertinent to the conversation. Detailed records will assist you if the conversation moves beyond teachers or administration.
What happens if my teacher or initial contact is not helpful? You should raise your concern to the administration level. Teachers often do not have the authority to find alternative solutions. Administration can often be helpful in resolving your issues.
Who else can I contact? Locate your school board representative. While school board members do not have the authority to make decisions regarding the application of policy to students, they can often explain school policies and connect you to key staff members.
What If I am embarrassed about the situation? You should never feel bad about advocating for your child. If you think something isn’t right, you should follow the steps outlined above.
To learn more about Debbie Rose, click here. To find more resources related to the Whitbeck Bennett Education Law practice, click here. A link to the blog is located below.
WELCOME TO THE TEAM!
Kimberly Rennie, Partner
Oklahoma City, OK
Vernon Vassallo, Associate
Wilmington, DE
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS
Tara Brown, Partner
Richmond, VA
Kathy Laffey, Partner
Wilmington, DE
BLOG HIGHLIGHT
6 Steps to Achieve a Successful Resolution with Your School
“With the increased focus on education issues over the past two years, people have certainly become more informed about school policies, curriculum, and administration. And for many, what they have learned is that it is more important than ever to be constantly engaged in the process of policy development and administrative oversight. While public participation in education is growing, information about how to resolve conflicts regarding student discipline, special education, gifted services, and employment is lacking. In these situations, where a student’s education or an employee’s job status could be significantly impacted, there are some best practices you should follow to achieve a successful resolution…”
Click here to continue reading the blog.
PARENTS & EDUCATION TOWN HALLS
Not able to attend Part 1 or aPart 2 of the “Parents & Education Town Hall Series” hosted by Whitbeck Bennett? The videos are now available to watch on our website and our YouTube channel.
THE MIND ITSELF
The Mind Itself is a podcast about mental health & mental health law, and how it affects all aspects of our daily lives. By taking a deeper dive into how our society deals with mental health medically, legally, and practically, listeners gain insight about one of America’s most pressing and often overlooked issues.
Check out The Mind Itself Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.
OUR MISSION
