Pupil discipline: suspension: informal conference.

(1) Existing law requires that suspension of a pupil be imposed only when other means of correction fail to bring about proper conduct. Existing law requires a suspension by the principal, the principal's designee, or the district superintendent of schools to be preceded by an informal conference conducted by the principal, the principal's designee, or the district superintendent of schools between the pupil and, whenever practicable, the teacher, supervisor, or school employee who referred the pupil to the principal, the principal's designee, or the district superintendent of schools. Existing law requires a pupil, at the conference, to be informed of the reason for the disciplinary action and the evidence against him or her, and given the opportunity to present his or her version and evidence in his or her defense. This bill would require a pupil, at the conference, to also be informed of the other means of correction that were attempted before the suspension. Because the bill would impose additional duties on school districts in regards to the suspension of a pupil, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. (2) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.