Course Description:
In this course, aspiring leaders will examine the main components of K-12 school law, ethics and policy, including the study of constitutional, statute, case laws, ethical standards, and policies relating to the organization and operation of public education. Emphasis will be placed on the examination of legal principles involved in practical problems of school administration. Aspiring leaders will reflect on the impact that school law and policies have on the rights of students and educators as guaranteed by the United States Constitution, federal and state statutes, and school board policies. Additionally, aspiring leaders will evaluate the impact of federal and state regulations on processes and procedures in working with parents, students, and educators. Aspiring leaders will evaluate the extent to which these regulations promote equity and social justice for all stakeholders.
Learning Outcomes:
1) Using knowledge of federal constitutional provisions that apply to K-12 schools, (including the individual rights of students and teachers guaranteed by the First Amendment and judicially recognized Fourth Amendment and Fourteenth Amendment rights, state and federal statutes), examine and apply the sources of law, legal terminology, and the legal foundations affecting the rights, privileges, and duties of administrators, teachers, and pupils of educational settings. (FPLS 5a, FPLS 5b; CAEP A.3.4:
2) Evaluate ethical standards implicit in the U.S. Constitution, federal and state laws, policies, and legal decisions applicable to schools and educational leaders.