How to Protect Student Rights

Schools should be places where the rights of students are put above all else; unfortunately this isn't always so. Student rights may vary from school to school, so it is important that students know their rights, so that they can protect them effectively.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Know your rights. Different schools have different rules about the rights of their students. Factors that influence these rules are; whether or not the school is private or public, whether the school is affiliated with a specific religion and the level of eduction provided. Consult your school's charter or handbook in order to learn your school's code of student rights.
2. Stand up for your rights and demand that they be respected. If you believe that your rights have been violated, speak out, organize a sit-in or write a petition. Make school officials know that you are aware of your rights and they will take you seriously.
3. Make an appointment to speak with school officials about a violation of your student rights. Make sure to organize your thoughts before the meeting and clearly explain the violation and what you would like to be done about it. If you feel that the school officials are not listening to your concerns, you may have to ask your parents to join the conversation.
4. Call an attorney if you feel that your school cannot, or will not, effectively protect your rights. The are legal precedents for the violation of student rights and if the school's administrators are unwilling to cooperate with you, this may be your only option.