COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

P.O. BOX 2120

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23218-2120

SUPTS. MEMO NO. 274

November 7, 2008

INFORMATIONAL

TO:	Division Superintendents
FROM:	Patricia I. Wright Superintendent of Public Instruction
SUBJECT:	Publication: A Parent’s Guide To Understanding Student Discipline Policies and Practices In Virginia Schools

The Virginia Department of Education has prepared a guide to assist parents in understanding student discipline policies and practices in Virginia’s public schools. While the guide will be informative to all parents, it is primarily intended to answer questions frequently asked by parents whose children have violated student conduct policies and have experienced disciplinary consequences. Topics addressed include the following:

• How Virginia law establishes the framework for student conduct policies and procedures;
• The authority of local school boards in establishing local policies and procedures;
• Responsibilities of school administrators to ensure safe and secure learning environments;
• Rights and responsibilities of students and parents; and
• The disciplinary process related to suspension and expulsion from school.

The guide includes basic information on Virginia laws and a series of questions frequently asked by parents. Answers are intended to be brief, understandable, and jargon-free. Many of the answers include a reference to the Code of Virginia or other resources where a parent may go for more detailed information. At the end of the guide is a list of additional information resources. The guide may be accessed at the following Web site: http://www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/studentsrvcs/understanding_student_discipline.pdf.

Should there be questions, please contact Jo Ann Burkholder, specialist for the Safe and Drug-Free Schools Program at (804) 371-7586.

JB/nlc