Expulsion (JDE)

A student maybe be expelled if a behavioral infraction committed is serious enough to warrant such action or is in violation of state law. Prior to any expulsion the school principal shall advise the student of the infraction of which he/she is accused as well as the basis for such accusation, and the student shall be given an opportunity at that time to explain his/her version of the facts. Upon the recommendation for expulsion of a student by the principal, a hearing shall be conducted by the School Board’s hearing officer within fifteen (15) school days to determine the facts of the case and make a finding of whether the student is guilty of conduct warranting an expulsion. The student’s parents/legal guardians shall be provided written notice of the hearing, and the notice shall advise the student and his/her parent or legal guardian of their rights. Until the hearing, the student shall remain suspended out-of-school with access to classwork and the opportunity to earn academic credit.

A student who is suspended for longer than ten (10) days or expelled shall be provided with academic instruction at an alternative setting in accordance with La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §17:416.2. At the hearing, the principal shall be permitted to attend and present any relevant information. Upon conclusion of the hearing, the Office of Child Welfare and Attendance shall notify the parents of the decision rendered by the hearing officer and the specified period of expulsion, or any other disciplinary action to be taken. Unless 34 otherwise stipulated by state statutes, the period of expulsion shall not be less than one school semester and may carry over into the next school year when necessary. The student shall be provided with academic instruction at an alternative setting in accordance with La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §17:416.2.