Student Discipline Appeal Letter Template

[Date]

[District Superintendent or Board Address]

Re: Appeal of Disciplinary Decision – [Student Name, School]

Dear [Superintendent/Board Chair],

1. Introduction

I am writing to appeal the disciplinary decision issued on [Date] regarding my child, [Student Name], a [grade] student at [School Name]. Pursuant to district policy [Policy Number] and applicable state law, I request a review and reversal/modification of the decision.

2. Background

• Incident date: [Date]
• Description of alleged conduct: [Summary]
• Disciplinary action imposed: [Suspension/expulsion/other], length/effective dates.
• Prior disciplinary history (if any): [Brief description or "none"].

3. Grounds for Appeal

• Procedural Violations: [Insufficient notice, lack of opportunity to present evidence, failure to follow policy].
• Insufficient Evidence: [Explain discrepancies, witness statements, surveillance footage].
• Disproportionate Discipline: [Compare with similar cases, mitigating factors].
• Failure to Consider Disability/IEP/504 Plan: [Explain how disability or accommodations were not considered].

4. Requested Relief

• Rescind or reduce disciplinary penalty.
• Expunge record of discipline from student file.
• Provide alternative corrective measures (counseling, restorative justice, behavior plan).
• Allow student to make up missed assignments/tests.

5. Supporting Documentation

• Attach copies of disciplinary notice, witness statements, medical/IEP documentation, relevant correspondence.

6. Hearing Request

• Request formal appeal hearing before [Superintendent/Board] on or before [Date].
• Identify individuals who will accompany or represent the student (parent, attorney, advocate).

7. Conclusion

We believe the current disciplinary decision is unjust and inconsistent with district policy. We appreciate your prompt review and look forward to presenting our appeal.

Sincerely,

[Parent/Guardian Name]
[Address]
[Phone]
[Email]

cc: [Principal], [Hearing Officer], [Attorney/Advocate]