CHALMETTE, La. — Last week, the St. Bernard Parish School Board approved changes to its expulsion and suspension policies, which were especially harmful to students with disabilities. The changes were made in response to a settlement agreement reached by the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) on behalf of five students with multiple disabilities who have spent years in the St. Bernard Parish School District’s (the “District”) alternative school in violation of their due process and disability rights.
Part of the settlement agreement states that the District will amend their school board policies as follows:
- Students referred to an alternative school site for disciplinary reasons for more than a school semester shall have a right to due process as required by Louisiana law;
- The District will not request or require a waiver of due process hearings or appeals associated with an alternative school placement, regardless of length of placement;
- Students referred to an alternative school site will receive a definitive exit date;
- The District will provide eligible students with a Manifestation Determination Review in accordance with federal law.
“SPLC wants to ensure the St. Bernard community is aware of these new policies so that parents know and understand their child’s educational rights,” said Lauren A. Winkler, senior staff attorney, SPLC. “These revisions help guarantee all of the District’s students receive the same support and protections granted under state and federal law.”
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About the Southern Poverty Law Center
The Southern Poverty Law Center is a catalyst for racial justice in the South and beyond, working in partnership with communities to dismantle white supremacy, strengthen intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all people. For more information, visit www.splcenter.org.