April 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM - Disciplinary Hearing

Identification of Parties: Introduction of the Board, Administration (Superintendent/Principal), the Student, and their Parents/Legal Counsel.

Purpose of Hearing: Clearly state the alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct and the recommended disciplinary action (e.g., long-term suspension or expulsion).

Acknowledgement of Open Session: The Board President should formally state for the record that the parent/guardian requested an open session, thereby waiving certain privacy rights under FERPA for the duration of this meeting.

Evidence: The school administration presents the facts of the incident, including investigative reports, digital evidence, or physical items.

Witnesses: The school may call staff or other involved parties.

Cross-Examination: The student or their representative has the right to question any witnesses called by the administration.
 

Response to Allegations: The student or their representative presents their version of events.

Mitigating Factors: Under Michigan law (MCL 380.1310d), the board must consider "7 Factors" before expelling or suspending a student (e.g., age, disciplinary history, disability, and whether a lesser intervention would work). This is where the student addresses those.
 

Witnesses: The student may call witnesses on their behalf.

Cross-Examination: The administration or the Board may question the student's witnesses.

Board members may ask clarifying questions of either the administration or the student/parents.

Administration’s Final Recommendation: A brief summary of why the discipline is necessary for school safety or order.

Student’s Final Plea: A brief summary of why the proposed discipline should be rejected or reduced
.

Public Deliberation: Since this is an open session, the Board will typically discuss the merits of the case in front of the audience
 

A motion is made regarding the disciplinary outcome (Guilt/Innocence and the Penalty).

Roll call vote is taken.