Nation-states have concerns about the health and wellbeing of their citizens and these concerns have directly or indirectly influenced educational reform and curriculum development. In 2000, China issued a directive of 'Health First' which applied to all elements of the education system. In its scale and scope, this represented a significant and…

The goal of this book is to help the reader gain knowledge on ethical and legal issues in the field of student affairs and develop competency to follow the profession's principles and standards of conduct. The significance of the book is due to its focus on the practical value of ethics and legal issues and its aim to address the knowledge,…

Polarizing political beliefs are nothing new on campus, but the tactics employed by supporters of the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement create new cause for concern, from the politicization of curricula and academic associations to efforts to silence Israeli speakers to overtly anti-Semitic behavior on campus. In a new essay, the…

Hazing in public schools is a significant problem that may result in serious physical or emotional harm to students who are victims. According to experts in the field, each year more than 1,500,000 American students become new hazing victims. Hazing also results in legal challenges for school personnel. The courts consider public schools to be…

This article explores the legal implications for U.S. higher education administrators who make admissions decisions regarding students with disabilities. A review of federal legislation, case law, and government agency rulings pertaining to higher education admissions and students with disabilities informs administrators of current law.…

Research demonstrates that students with disabilities are harassed more than their nondisabled peers. Students with disabilities who have been severely harassed have argued that they are not receiving a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) as required by Individuals with Disabilities Education Act…

Help for educators and administrators may be on the way in the form of "hold harmless" documents that allow for flexibility in enforcing program policies. Having a "No Babysitting policy," and "Hold Harmless" documentation will not stop one's program from being sued. However, with the "No Babysitting policy" and "Hold Harmless" documentation…

The adoption of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and the Education for All Handicapped Children's Act, now the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), have had a major impact on the delivery of services for children with special needs. In light of the legal issues surrounding the delivery of special education…

Since the 1990s, truancy has become administrators' most persistent problem. This article examines student absenteeism trends, characteristics of nonattenders, and current attendance policies. While schools can encourage attendance, final responsibility rests with students and parents. Includes four references. (MLH)

Indicates that malpractice suits are a new feature in education and explains how teachers, universities, and colleges can protect themselves against this threat. (Author/GS)

Explores sources of legal rights for students and personnel in private colleges and universities. Presents cases to illustrate the ways that federal courts have addressed campus due-process concerns at institutions accredited by the North Central Association. Concludes that due-process protections are generally lacking. (LAL)

Provides suggestions to help administrators and instructors examine educational policies and practices, identify foreseeable risks, and plan for the appropriate management of risks in light of recent court decisions on: proper instruction, adequate supervision of in- and out-of-class activities, and the maintenance and safe operation of…

U.S. Supreme Court ruled last year that students who have been sexually harassed by teachers may recover money damages against school districts and administrators. Article suggests to avoid lawsuits, including establishing and announcing clear-cut policy, educating teachers to recognize sexual harassment behaviors, requiring student complaints to…

School districts must properly manage volunteers to protect children from negligent behavior. Districts can reduce the risk of using volunteers by developing volunteer-management policies and procedures; maintaining adequate liability insurance; developing descriptions of volunteer responsibilities; screening interested persons; and providing…

Before abused children can heal and learn effectively, the problem causing the trauma must be recognized and identified, and proper legal issues must be addressed. Through various local, state, and federal mechanisms, U.S. society has provided a process for reporting suspected child abuse and crafting a positive solution. (Contains 28 references.)…