EdLawConnect Blog

The Education Code currently provides that students enrolled in grades K through 3 may not be suspended pursuant to Education Code 48900(k).  Furthermore, no student regardless of grade level may be recommended for expulsion based on a violation of that provision.  Senate Bill (SB) 419, introduced by Sen. Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) on February 21, 2019, would expand the existing ban on suspensions for violations of 48900(k) to students enrolled in grades 4 through 8.  In addition, the ban would also extend to students enrolled in grades 9 through 12, but this provision is scheduled to sunset on January 1, 2025.  The proposed bill also applies the ban to charter schools.

To enhance school safety, some school districts have established “tip” lines where students may send emails or text messages to the district about bullying, drugs, alcohol use, fights, or anything else that may adversely impact the health, safety, or welfare of students.  A legal issue that arises from these programs is whether the information in the emails and text messages must be disclosed under the ...