Know Your Rights I
Do I have the right to review my child's school records?
Yes, federal law guarantees parents the right to inspect their child's transcript (the transcript is where records of academic and personal progress during the school years are kept).
What rights do English language learners and their parents have?
Students may be in a special program to learn English covering the same material as other children in the same grade on the same general schedule.
Parents must approve their children to receive these services.
Can schools engage in any type of religious practice?
No. Schools may not engage in or condone any religious practice, but students may express their religious beliefs.
What should I do if I change my address or phone number?
Notify the school, as this information is needed in case of an emergency.
What can I do if the school summons me to a meeting and I don't speak English?
Parents have the right to request an interpreter when they need to meet with school personnel or to attend a conference.
Do I have to tell my immigration status and my children's immigration status to the school?
NO. Schools cannot ask you to prove your immigration status.
What should the school do when it imposes a disciplinary sanction on a student?
The school must inform parents as soon as possible. Parents have the right to have a meeting with the principal and may appeal if necessary.
What are examples of prohibited items in schools that result in disciplinary action?
Objects that are considered dangerous weapons such as knives, box cutters, box openers. Alcohol, cigarettes or other illegal substances.
When can the school give medication to a student?
Only with a signed permission slip from the parent and physician and with the original prescription container. The nurse cannot provide any type of analgesic.
What should I do when my child does not go to school?
Parents are required to call the school and let them know the reason for the absence. If it is for many days and is due to health reasons, a doctor's note should be sent.
Can other groups or agencies obtain information from my child's school records?
The school cannot provide any information to immigration. Other groups may be able to obtain certain information from the file.
Can parents ask about teacher credentials?
Yes, parents have the right to request information about teacher certification and experience.
What are three examples of excused absences?
Illness
Doctor, dentist appointment
Family emergency - death of a close family member
What should I do if my child is having problems in class? Or if I have a complaint about a school employee.
The first step is to talk to the teacher and ask for an appointment. If the teacher cannot resolve it, you should go to the principal. If the problem is with the teacher, you should make an appointment directly with the principal.
What are three actions a parent can take at home to support their children's education?
-See that the child sleeps 8-9 hours a night.
-Read or provide space for reading.
- Assign a set time and place to do homework.
- Monitor homework completion.
Can parents visit their children's classrooms?
Yes, parents have the right to visit classrooms and have lunch with their children as long as they make an appointment in advance.
What is the age required by Virginia law for children to attend school?
In Virginia, the law requires children to attend school from age 5 through age 18.
Do the schools have a dress code?
Yes. Clothing must be appropriate and they may not wear off-the-shoulder tops, shorts or skirts that are too high and they may not wear hats.
If my child is having problems with his peers,
can I talk to his parents?
No. You should talk to the teacher or principal. Schools have an obligation to protect the privacy of families.
What meetings with teachers am I required to attend in order to advocate for my child's education? And what other meetings must I attend?
-To parent conferences at the beginning of the year or if called for behavioral issues.
Individual Special Education meetings
PTA -Parent Teacher Association (become a member, small family contribution)