Expulsion Procedures

In those cases where the code of discipline has reached or exceeded the allowable accumulated infractions, the principal may expel a student after consulting with the Superintendent of Schools. Due Process must be evident during the period of accumulation (i.e. notification of parents, parent conferences, behavioral contract, suspensions, etc.). Parents make appeal of expulsion directly to the Superintendent of Schools. 

In those cases of serious breeches of discipline, which demand immediate review, a disciplinary committee will be convened to examine the specific details of the situation. The Committee is typically made of five individuals, the guidance counselor, religious formation, academic representation, and members of the administration. The principal is not a part of the Disciplinary Committee. Parents will be given five (5) days notice as to the assigned date of the hearing. Upon parental request, the notification may be waved. 

Before the hearing begins, the parents are informed of the possible recommendations that the Committee can make to the principal. The student and his/her parent(s) will be allowed to answer questions and present evidence in order to clarify the details of the case for the Disciplinary Committee.

Once the hearing is in progress, the parents do not have the right to voluntarily withdraw, in lieu of expulsion, unless that is the recommendation of the Committee and agreed to by the principal. If the decision to expel is made, the parents are notified in writing within five days. The student may not attend classes during those days.

Following the meeting, each member submits his/her recommendation (in writing) to the principal for consideration. The final disciplinary action rests with the principal. 

The Disciplinary Committee makes a recommendation, which might include:

• Not to expel – Other disciplinary suggestions must accompany this recommendation.
• Allow student to voluntarily withdraw from the school in lieu of expulsion.
• Expel the student.

When a specific disciplinary issue arises from outside the School that directly affects the School or the Archdiocese, the principal must contact the Superintendent of Schools immediately. In most cases, the School should follow the course of action as outlined in their Family Handbook. 

However, in cases where students are from more than one Archdiocesan School, a Disciplinary Committee must be convened with representation from the schools involved and a recommendation presented to the Superintendent of Schools. The final decision for expulsion or other disciplinary action rests with the Superintendent. Appeal of the expulsion is then made to the Office of the Archbishop. In those situations for which no policy exists, the Superintendent, in consultation with the Office of the Archbishop, will render the final decision.

In keeping with Canon Law, the Archbishop or his designee reserves the right to make the decisions in all matters regarding Archdiocesan Elementary and Secondary Schools.