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Student Rights

For liberty to be preserved, it must be nurtured in the hearts and minds of young people. The ACLU educates students about the many important rights they have and supports those who exercise their rights. In doing so, we help to prepare the next generation of guardians of liberty.

REPORT: Washington Schools Routinely Physically Restrain and Isolate Students

Advocates call on the Legislature to Clarify the Law and Adopt Reforms to Protect Students 

Resources

ACLU-WA Statement on Trump Administration’s School Safety Commission Report

News Release, Published: 
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
Regardless of the federal recommendations, Washington state’s constitution and laws provide additional protections for students and a create a strong mandate for schools to adopt discipline policies that are nondiscriminatory, culturally competent, and provide for every student’s education and safety.
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Facts, not fear, ought to drive efforts to keep Washington’s students safe at school

Published: 
Friday, November 30, 2018
We issued a minority report opposing a task force recommendation to fund school police and instead recommend interventions to create a positive school climate and additional student supports.
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Civil Liberties in the State Legislature - 2018 Legislative Session

Published: 
Thursday, April 12, 2018
Civil liberties highlights from the 2018 Washington State Legislative Session
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PSA to Student Protestors: You Have Rights

Published: 
Wednesday, February 28, 2018
Washington Law Protects Against Suspensions for Walkouts
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Parents' Guide to Public School Discipline in Washington

Document, Published: 
Thursday, December 14, 2017
This pamphlet provides nuts-and-bolts advice for parents whose children are facing disciplinary proceedings at a public school. It is designed for those who intend to advocate for their children in meetings with administrators, hearing officers, and school boards.
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