How much do you know about student rights? Take the quiz!

Can you be expelled for not following directions? Can a kindergarten student be suspended or expelled? Can police search student backpacks in school without a warrant? Find out what you need to know to protect student rights in Washington’s public schools. Take the quiz and download our free, updated student rights guide.

Question #1

True or false: A school can expel a student for disobeying a teacher’s directions.

See the answer

False. Under a Washington law effective in 2016, schools can only expel students for certain serious behaviors (like offenses involving violence or drugs). Breaking a school’s rules or disobeying a teacher’s directions cannot be punished with expulsion or suspension over 10 days.

Question #2

True or false: A student in kindergarten can be suspended.

See the answer

True. Students in kindergarten through fourth grade cannot be suspended for more than 10 days, but can be given shorter suspensions. Last year, the Washington legislature considered but did not pass SB 5155, which would have banned suspensions for the youngest learners.

Question #3

True or false: Police can always search student’s backpacks without a warrant.

See the answer

False. In Washington, police in schools generally need a warrant to search a student’s backpack or personal possessions. An officer can search without a warrant if there’s an emergency or if you agree to the search.

Learn more about student rights in Washington’s public schools. Download our updated Student Rights Guide and Police in Schools Wallet Card.

School Discipline Guide

This pamphlet provides nuts-and-bolts advice for parents whose children are facing disciplinary proceedings at a public school. It is designed for those who intend to advocate for their children in meetings with administrators, hearing officers, and school boards.

Know Your Rights: Police In Schools

Many schools have police officers stationed on campus. Other schools may call police to respond to particular situations. Even though you are in school, you still have rights when interacting with police.

How much do you know about student rights? Take the quiz!

Question #1

Question #2

Question #3

School Discipline Guide

Know Your Rights: Police In Schools

Events

Join us at events throughout Washington.

Racial justice and free speech resources

Resources for administrators, teachers, parents, and students on racial justice and free speech

Protest rights and safety

Stay safe and know your rights.

Restraint and isolation in Washington schools

What they are, how they are being used and what needs to change to protect WA's kids