Instruction
This week we will investigate student rights and discipline, covering what can often be touchy topics, such as rights and discipline for special needs students, rule-making, and student privacy.
Privacy and security are important to all of us, whether as students or citizens. The 4th and 14th amendments address privacy while schools are held accountable for the security of the school environment and for keeping it safe and orderly. For this reason, schools do have the right to infringe on student privacy where there is reasonable suspicion and in cases where the safety of the school may be compromised. Already, we can see how the issue of student discipline and privacy may create conflict between that which seems ethical, that which is legal, and that which is necessary to maintain the safety of the majority. As faculty in educational environments, we must know our rights as well as the rights of our students. We will look at and discuss situations involving student privacy and discipline, often involving ethical dilemmas and challenging decisions.
I look forward to reading the hypothetical cases that emerge and how you respond as attorneys for or against the district!