This document records testimony from a hearing before the Committee on Education and Labor that was held to discuss the inappropriate use of seclusion and restraint practices in classrooms. The statements presented in this report discuss the Federal Government's role in protecting the health and safety of students and school staff. Member…

The Virginia Board of Education's "Student Conduct Policy Guidelines" were first developed in 1994 in response to action by the 1993 General Assembly requiring the Virginia Board of Education to establish such guidelines. In 2004, the "Guidelines" underwent a major revision in response to requirements of § 22.1-279.6. of the…

After summarizing the relevant federal laws regarding the educational rights of handicapped students, the author reviews recent cases regarding such students' suspension and expulsion. From court decisions, conclusions are then drawn about the legally allowable disciplining of handicapped students. (JW)

Suspension is often an inappropriate remedy for discipline problems since the students being suspended are inevitably those who most need to be retained in school. Other discipline methods that reinforce positive behavior warrant the consideration of school and civil authorities. Restitution, which allows juveniles to compensate for damages they…

Pursuant to Virginia's House Joint Resolution No. 415, calling for the identification and treatment of truants, dropouts, and youths at risk, this interim report provides a background and framework for policies and guidelines in this area, particularly as they relate to dropping out. It then reviews existing or new programs which address related…

Student rights to freedom of speech and the legitimate degrees of control available to principals are discussed in this paper. An overview of pertinent federal litigation focuses on two landmark cases involving oral and written speech, respectively: Bethel School District #403 v. Fraser; and Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier. A conclusion is…