In jails and mental hospitals, the inmates are given a packet which describes their constitutional, civil, legal and other types of rights. Why not in our public schools? (Student handbooks of rules and responsibilities are not the same.) Also, jails and hospitals employ impartial advocates for the inmates. (I don't know how impartial they really are, but they are not paid by the jail/hospital. They are paid by the state.) Inmates can direct all concerns, questions and grievances to these people. Again, why not in our schools? In school, a student can only complain to the teachers, principals, or counselors - all employees of the school.
When I was in school I was told things like "The constitution is only for those over 21" and "We don't listen to complaints about the school." This information is, of course, wrong and I think it's sad that people don't stand up for the rights of students the way they do for other involuntary consumers.
What do you all think? Do any of your schools employ an impartial advocate/ombudsperson?
When I was in school I was told things like "The constitution is only for those over 21" and "We don't listen to complaints about the school." This information is, of course, wrong and I think it's sad that people don't stand up for the rights of students the way they do for other involuntary consumers.
What do you all think? Do any of your schools employ an impartial advocate/ombudsperson?
