Law and Policy

Catalog description

This course explores legal, ethical and political issues governing PreK-12 education in America and the legal responsibilities and powers of state and local governing bodies and individuals that arise in elementary and secondary schools. Emphasis is given to federal and state statutes and case law affecting due process, liability, equal protection, and the rights of teachers and students in order to better understand the risks in education management and possible strategies to reduce those risks. The course will explore evolving legal standards on a variety of issues. The course will draw on real cases and legal/policy dilemmas that practitioners face, and focus on preventive law - providing current and future school learners with knowledge and skills they will need to make sound decisions, advance important educational objectives, and minimize legal problems.