I agree with Metzy, the Student Council is just that...students. The adults sponsors are there to guide more than anything, the group is ultimately governed by the students. Also, 6th grade is that jumping point into higher learning whether it's included in elementary or middle school. The students are learning that they are more accountable for their schoolwork and their actions. This would not have been a lesson for just your son, but the rest of the students as well.
It doesn't sound like he was reprimanded, it sounds like he was fired. By his peers. I don't want to get on your bad side, but Student Goverment (or Student Council) is supposed to be peer oriented. It sounds as though you are going to have a tough time fighting this. I'd say the adults (except the Student Council Advisor who should have 'advised') should have stayed out of it. The phrase 'Student Council' pretty much says it all... Student Council. I hate to say it, but I think that part of their 'job', is to learn how hard it is to make tough decisions. And in the case of your son, how to accept tough decisions made by our peers. I'll also bet there are guideline, bylaws or something to that nature. Check with the SC Advisors.
Of course, if it were my child, I'd fight them to the High Heavens too. Doesn't mean I'd be right, just means I'd be a Mom.
This has to do with a Student Council 'policy'. They don't have any procedures, guidlines written for displinary action with SC. My son was relieved of his duties as a class representative. I do not dispute the reasons he was relieved of his duties, but in the manner it was done. Too many factors to go into, but the main concern is that the letter informing him of his 'termination' was signed by the principal (thats ok), the 2 teacher sponsors (ok as well) and the five 6th grade officers of the SC (which DOES NOT sit well with me). I feel this was handled as in a lynch mob type situation. I can't imagine peers reprimanding another peer, no matter what he did. This letter, in my opinion, should have been signed only by adults, this was an adult responsibility. There is nothing in a policy or guideline stating that peers are allowed to be involved in reprimands of such nature.
I have gone to the principal, he supports the SC letter, and told me if I am not satisfied, to send a letter to the superintendent which I just finished a letter tonight and will send it tomorrow. I am keeping all copies of current 'guidelines' which really details nothing of importance in this matter).
Maybe I am like a momma bear getting her fur ruffled but I don't think this is how they should have handled it.
While I understand that you are upset, I have to ask if the disciplinary action taken was outlined in writing at the beginning of the school year. Each year, our district sends home a pamphlet that describes what actions will be taken for what infractions. Each parent must sign and return a form saying that they read it, went over it with their child and agree to abide by it. If this is the same at your school, and they stayed within the guidelines, you probably are not going to receive any satisfaction.
If they used punishment not listed in the guidelines, if there are no guidelines (believe me there are guidelines somewhere), or if you did not agree to allow them to use these guidelines, then you need to follow the chain of command up the ladder, possibly to a mediator or to an attorney.
Without more information, that is about the best advice I have to offer.
I am wondering where a parent can go for support in dealing with a grade school in how they managed a disciplinary action. I have gone to the principal, visited with the school staff members involved. The principal is supporting one of the teachers actions. He suggests if I am not satisfied to take it to the superintendant which I will in the form of a detailed letter. Besides that, what else can I do or at least go to someone to assure that I am legitimate in my reaction to their actions.
