I am a student with disabilities, and I experienced firsthand the unfair treatment and violations of my rights in my school’s disciplinary process. Despite my Autism Spectrum Disorder, the school ignored disability-related factors when I had a verbal outburst. Instead of considering my needs under federal and state law, the school referenced unrelated past incidents, scheduled a disciplinary tribunal before completing a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR), and proposed a long-term suspension for the entire semester. My family was denied meaningful participation in the MDR, and my demonstrated remorse and corrective actions were disregarded. These actions violate the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Georgia state special education procedures.

No student should have to endure a system where disability-related needs are ignored and disciplinary actions are decided without proper consideration of federal and state protections. The impact of such unjust treatment can have long-lasting consequences on education, well-being, and future opportunities.

To address these systemic issues, schools must:

1. Fully consider disability-related factors in all disciplinary actions, as required by IDEA and Section 504.
2.  Ensure parents and guardians are given meaningful participation and votes during MDRs and other disciplinary proceedings.
3. Avoid using unrelated past incidents to justify excessive or disproportionate punishments.
4. Implement transparent and accountable disciplinary procedures that respect students’ rights and provide restorative approaches where appropriate.
5. Train all staff on disability rights and federal/state compliance, so every student is treated fairly and equitably.
    

By signing this petition, you are advocating for a fair and just educational system that respects the rights of students with disabilities. Together, we can ensure that no student has to face the kind of unfair treatment and legal violations that I endured.