How long is a suspension?

Up to 10 Days.

How long is an expulsion?

10-80 Days (this can carry over to the next school year)

Is it possible to be expelled for longer than 80 days?

Yes, some expulsions can be as long as one year. Your school board can make local policies.  See the table below for some examples:

Note: Each school policy is different.

Note: When you are suspended or expelled, you are not permitted to enter school property, do extra-curricular activities, or attend school-sponsored events.

Do I have legal rights as a student?

Yes. You have Due Process Rights, which means that schools must follow certain procedures when they take actions against you. Privacy Rights, which means that schools must respect your privacy (although they can still search you if they have an important reason).

Can I get permanently expelled?

Yes. Permanent expulsion means that you cannot attend any public school in Ohio. In certain cases, you can be expelled permanently:

(1) if you are at least 16; AND

(2) you are convicted of a delinquent act, such as having one of the following:

• deadly weapon in a school zone,
• concealed weapon in a school zone,
• drugs, other than minor drug offenses, on school property.

What must the school do before they SUSPEND me?

• Give you written notice of the intent to suspend you and reasons for the suspension.
• Give you a chance to have an informal hearing.

What must the school do before they EXPEL me?

• Give you and/or your parent/guardian written notice of the intent to expel.
• Give you a chance to appear in person before the superintendent and to challenge their reasons for expulsion.

If you are found to be a continuing danger to people or property or if you are an ongoing disruption on school property, then the school can remove you before notice or a hearing.

However, a hearing must be held within 3 days after removal.

Note: If you are facing an in-school suspension, then the school is not required to follow the procedures mentioned above.

Tips:

• Failure to show up at a permanent exclusion hearing means that you waive your rights.
• You have a right to an attorney at a permanent exclusion hearing.
• Ohio schools are not required by law to provide you with education while you are out of school. However, you should always ask for assignments or make-up work!

Don’t let anyone make you feel like you don’t have a choice just because you’re a youth!

What if I am in housing transition or homeless?

A special law exists that protects you from school policies that punish you because of your homelessness.  Schools cannot have policies that act as barriers to your education. If you think this is happening, contact the homeless liaison in your district. To find your liaison, call 614-466-4161. Learn more on the Education for Homeless Children page of this website.

If you believe you have an education issue, contact your local legal aid program.