Understanding School Expulsion in the USA

Expulsion is a severe measure taken by school districts in the USA, often as a last resort for students who exhibit violent or harmful behavior. This comprehensive process can present significant challenges for expelled students, particularly regarding where they must reside and how they can continue their education.

Expulsion Process and Consequences in the USA

In my state, expulsion from a public school is among the most serious actions a school district can take. Typically, expulsion is reserved for cases of violent or demonstrably harmful acts towards others. Occasionally, a student who has been repeatedly suspended (often referred to as a 'serial suspendee') may also face expulsion, but this is a more protracted and complex process.

If an expelled student is perceived to be a danger to themselves or others, local law enforcement may intervene, leading to their custody being transferred to the parents or often to a designated guardian. Otherwise, the expelled student is usually held in a suspension room, office, or even the school health facility until a parent can claim them. Parents are responsible for finding a new educational opportunity for their child, which can present significant challenges depending on the geographical location, particularly in urban and suburban areas.

Challenges for Urban and Suburban Expellees

In urban or suburban settings, parents often have to find a neighboring district ready to enroll an expelled student. This can be a daunting task, as districts may be cautious about accepting a student expelled due to serious infractions. The process can involve a lot of negotiation and administrative work. In my experience, the process is often complicated and time-consuming, leaving students and their families in a difficult position.

Options for Rural Expellees

In rural areas, the situation is generally more challenging due to a lack of nearby educational options. Here, private education or homeschooling become more common, but these options come with a hefty price tag in terms of both financial costs and the time and effort required to implement them effectively. Parents must find ways to manage the emotional, social, and academic aspects of homeschooling, as it is typically more demanding than traditional schooling.

South African Experiences and Procedures

My understanding of expulsions in South Africa, particularly in Cape Town, differs somewhat. Typically, an expelled student in South Africa receives a written warning after trespassing in certain areas, with a final warning to the parents. If the student returns to school the following day, the caretaker may take them home with a letter instructing them to remain there for a specified period, during which time their parents take full responsibility. If the student does not comply, welfare services and the police may be involved to ensure adherence to school rules.

Expulsion Criteria and Legal Procedural Steps

Expulsions in South Africa can occur due to several factors, including the possession of weapons, providing or selling drugs, or severe injury to a student or staff member. In most cases, a student is initially suspended for up to 10 days, during which time legal procedures can be initiated. A formal expulsion hearing is held, often involving school staff, administrators, and, in some cases, a legal representative from the school district. Parents, the student, and their chosen attorney or advocate must attend.

Following such a hearing, the expelled student is often placed in an alternative educational setting, such as a tutor or an 'alternate school setting.' These arrangements typically involve working with a tutor for a specified number of hours per week, either at a public library, another school, or the central administration building. The duration of an expulsion can range from half a school year to an entire school year, and for special education students, it is often even longer due to the need to work on goals and objectives outlined in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Regular Monitoring and Reviews

For special education students, continued monitoring and reviews are essential, with program reviews occurring every 20 school days to evaluate progress on goals and objectives. These regular assessments ensure that the student’s educational needs are being met, including any adjustments to their IEP as necessary.

Conclusion

The process of expulsion and what happens to students after expulsion can be overwhelming and challenging for both the students and their families. Whether it's navigating the school district in the USA or the educational system in South Africa, the goal is to find a path that allows for both educational advancement and personal growth. With perseverance and support from the community and legal representatives, it is possible to overcome the obstacles presented by expulsion.