Is there any way to get around a school's policy?

Question

I live in the state of South Carolina and the schools in the county that I live in make their own policies and rules for their school. I have a niece that 6 years old and last school year she was very ill. She had a staph infection called marsa that was very contagoius and for that reason her doctor recommended that she be removed from school because of the conditions that were present. She was suppose to be kindergarten last year and she only attended for two days before she was removed, but now her doctor has given her the okay to attend school this upcoming school year. Her mother called the school to enroll her back into kindergarten, but when she called the school the guidance counselor told her that because she is 6 years old she would have to go to the first grade, but her mom feels like she is not ready for first grade based on the fact that she didn't attend kindergarten last year and the work would be too complicated for her. But the school says based on her age she has no choice but to go to first grade because the school places you where you need to be based on your age. She tried calling the school district and they said it is nothing that they can do because each school makes there own rules and policy. So I was wondering is there any way to get around this because I feel that she has a right to get a fair education. Why send her to the first grade if she is not ready, it shouldn't be based on your age. So is there any way around this like consulting an attorney?? Only serious responses reply because this is a serious situation!!!!

Answer 1

To be honest you really don't learn nothing in kindergarten that you haven't learned from a responsible parent, so unless your child can't count to 10 and know their colors and letters you should just let her go to the first grade and work with her if she is behind.

It would be cheaper and less time consuming than fighting it, contact your seniter if you still have a problem with it

Answer 2

I would get an attorney for sure.  Kindergarten is important.  My son learned how to read and basic math skills.  I live in TN, here the parents have the final choice.  That is so wrong!  I hope they get it worked out.

Answer 3

Yes, that IS serious.

I'd suggest taking it up with the superintendant. He/She is the school's boss's boss; they WILL obey anything he says.

Here's what will happen: You tell the superintendant what happened,  he'll suggest that the principle let your daughter in, the principle obeys without a second thought! Done and done-er!

Hope that helps! Good luck!

Answer 4

Absolutely, that is a serious concern

I agree with what has been said so far but would really avoid an attorney.

However, just to look at it from another perspective.

The jump from Kindergarten to Grade 1 is not an impossible one. At that age every kid is at a different level and the teachers are prepared to deal with that. With parent involvement at home I think that any child would be able to go straight into Grade 1. BUT the family knows best. If you feel like she couldn't then trust YOUR instinct not a strangers.

Also have a quick think about her future. Her not being in Kindergarten will not have an effect on her high school life or anything like that. However, being a year older then everyone else...could. I would talk to the grade 1 teacher about your situation. She can tell you how she will cope and can probably giver her extra help if need be. Good luck with whatever path you choice.