Disputes And Academic Issues Involving Private Schools
Private schools face many of the same challenges as their public school counterparts. At The Rossi Law Firm, P.A., we represent education professionals in civil, administrative and union-related matters, and represent parents and students in disciplinary actions.
Criminal charges and convictions can end promising careers. Unprofessional or unethical acts committed by teachers or administrators could lead to involvement by the Department of Education (DOE). Our founder, Florida education attorney Steve Rossi, has advocated for various individuals associated with private or religious school issues, as well as a wide variety of other education law matters.
Working With Private School Clients Statewide
While similarities exist with public schools, disciplinary actions and other conflicts at private educational institutions involve unique issues. Teachers face the possible loss of licensure or certification for running afoul of licensing boards or state or federal law. Students and their parents may require help with disputes over school residency, disciplinary proceedings and tuition matters. International students, like Caribbean medical students, may need assistance with completing their schooling in the United States if they’re accused of violating their school’s code of conduct. With a wide-reaching practice that spans Florida, our team takes proactive steps to minimize the damage to reputations and careers.
Giving You The Answers You Need
You might feel alone going up against a private school, especially because the law is so complex. Mr. Rossi and the rest of our team can provide the information you seek as you advocate for a child’s rights or your own. These are answers to a few questions that we frequently hear at our Fort Lauderdale education law firm:
How does the Americans with Disabilities Act affect private schools?
Under Title II of the ADA, any educational institution that receives federal funding has a duty to provide accommodations for students with disabilities. However, if the school is a religious institution, it is exempt from complying with the ADA.
Does my child’s private school have to follow an Individualized Education Plan?
No. Private schools may choose to provide and follow IEPs, but they do not have to. If you feel that your child needs an IEP or you feel that their private school is not following it, you should speak with a lawyer about negotiating privately with school staff.
What if a private school suspended or expelled my child for no reason?
As private entities, private schools do not have to comply with Florida law or federal law when it comes to disciplinary or removal proceedings for a student. It is up to the school board’s discretion to suspend, expel or otherwise discipline a student for any reason they see fit.
These are merely a few inquiries that our clients often have. You can learn more when you speak with Mr. Rossi in person, via email or over the phone.
Aggressive Criminal Defense When Careers Are At Stake
As an education and school law attorney, Steve Rossi handles various aspects and details of cases involving prosecutors pursuing misdemeanor or felony charges against individuals associated with school law issues. He also represents individuals before administrative boards or before the Department of Education. He has handled situations where the school district or school or state has sought to suspend or revoke the license of an educator because of various criminal offenses, including but not limited to:
- Assault and battery
- Drunk driving
- Drug possession
- Inappropriate contact
- Sexual misconduct
Whether a crime allegedly occurred on or off school premises, severe consequences may await the accused education professional. Bad situations become worse when educators do not seek the defense of a criminal law attorney.
Speak With An Education Lawyer About Your Rights – Consults
The Rossi Law Firm, P.A., is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday with appointments available on Saturday. For more information or to schedule a consultation with an experienced South Florida private school attorney, fill out our intake form or call us at 888-674-2051.