Your Rights in Public School
What the School District owes you
Public school students in Pennsylvania have significant legal rights — rights that many students and families don't know about. You have the right to a safe learning environment, to due process before suspension, to special education services if you qualify, and to freedom from discrimination.
Practical next steps
You have the right to a free public education
Every student between ages 6–21 in Pennsylvania has the right to a free public education regardless of immigration status, disability, language, or past disciplinary history.
You have the right to due process before suspension
Before a suspension of more than 10 days, you have the right to a hearing. For shorter suspensions, you must be told the accusation and given a chance to respond.
You have the right to alternative education during suspension
Under Pennsylvania law, students who are suspended or expelled must be provided alternative education. If your school isn't providing one, this is a rights violation.
You have the right to be free from discrimination
Schools cannot discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or religion — including in dress codes, discipline, or access to programs.
You have the right to confidentiality of your records
Under FERPA, your school records are private. Schools cannot share them with outside parties (including police) without parental consent, with limited exceptions.
You have the right to special education services if you qualify
If you have a disability that affects your education, you may be entitled to an IEP. See the Special Education & IEPs guide for the full process.
You have the right to report bullying and harassment
The School District has a mandatory anti-bullying policy. Document incidents and report them in writing to the principal. If the school doesn't act, escalate to the District.
If your rights are violated, here's what to do
Step 1: Raise the issue in writing to the teacher or principal. Step 2: Contact the District's Office of General Counsel. Step 3: Contact the Public Interest Law Center or Education Law Center for free legal help.
Resource starting points
- Education Law Center PA
Free legal information and advocacy for PA students' education rights.
Organizations featured in this guide
- Education Law Center PA
Free legal information and direct advocacy for Philadelphia students facing education rights violations.
- Public Interest Law Center
Free legal representation for students in Philadelphia with education rights issues.
- Philadelphia Student Union
Student-led advocacy organization — know your rights trainings, organizing, and direct support.
- Community Legal Services
Free civil legal help for low-income Philadelphians including education rights issues.
Helpful things to know
Always communicate in writing
Emails and letters create a paper trail. Even a follow-up email after a verbal conversation protects you.
Free legal help exists
The Public Interest Law Center and Education Law Center provide free advocacy for students with education rights issues.
Common questions
Can I be expelled permanently?
In Pennsylvania, students under 21 cannot be permanently expelled from public education. You have the right to return and to alternative education during an expulsion.
What if police come to school and want to question me?
You have the right to remain silent and to have a parent present before answering police questions. See the Know Your Rights with Police guide.