ADHD Child Facing Expulsion

[TravelWillow]

My 14-year-old son has been diagnosed with ADHD, executive brain disorder, and tic disorder. He attends a Florida public school and just started 8th grade. Two weeks ago, the school called to say that seven laptops were broken, and they thought my son was part of a group of boys intentionally breaking laptops. Three boys confessed to each breaking one. My son broke his by accident by throwing his backpack with his laptop after a bad test grade and pushed a laptop off a desk that cracked the screen. He broke two and received an out-of-school suspension, required to pay for the damage and probation. We were okay with this. He should never damage school property, but we also feel his ADHD impulsivity could have impacted his choices.

The next day, we were called back to be told that based on student witnesses (no adults, no cameras), the school said he broke four, putting him at a level three offense and allowing the administration to expel him. My son insisted it was not true and was so upset we decided to take him for a polygraph, which he passed without uncertainty. He did not break the two additional laptops in question.

We appealed the suspension but were required to attend a manifestation determination meeting this week, and based on his breaking four laptops, the administration determined that his disability was not causation.

We went prepared with a doctor’s note, the polygraph, and our challenges with no success. He has all As and Bs, no absences. We are devastated as we love this school; he loves it, and it’s his last year there. We’ve spoken to an advocate and attorney; both are expensive. He will likely be forced to attend another middle school that is not desirable. If we pay for an attorney or advocate to fight, we feel they will eventually find something else to expel him.

So many more details, but that is the gist of what is happening. Any advice or help is welcome, and please be kind. I already have daily panic attacks, no sleep, and high anxiety.

[Mamamichl]

Zen hugs momma. I do think it’s time for a change in environment, unfortunately. Whether these kids are ganging up on him or the school is making it up, it’s not the best environment to keep forcing yourself into staying.it could affect his grades ultimately.

However, I would contact the county’s isd/esd that certifies the schools and tell them they may not be in aba compliance and you feel discriminated on.