Parents ask board to remove long‑term suspension from student record; call for clearer handbook communication

At the board’s call to the public, two parents described harms they say resulted when their son was placed on a long‑term suspension for an electronic violation. They asked the district to remove the LTS from the student’s educational record and urged improved communication of handbook policies.

Cassell Wiggins identified himself as “a father of 4” and a parent of students at Healy Ridge. He said the independent hearing officer concluded the district “failed to prove evidence providing he violated policy” and that the student had been placed on LTS primarily because of procedural delays. Wiggins said the suspension caused the student’s GPA to drop from 3.83 to 2.83, led to withdrawal and counseling, and “removed him from the classroom for an extended period of time.” He asked the district to (1) remove the LTS from the student’s record, (2) provide academic resources to help the student recover, and (3) ensure procedural safeguards to prevent unwarranted suspensions tied to administrative delays.

Gladys Brown, who introduced herself as the airport director and a parent, said the student’s case revealed a “critical gap” between the district’s written handbook and how families and staff are educated about policies. Brown urged the board to adopt regular outreach — short family education sessions and staff professional development — so students and families better understand handbook expectations and to reduce disciplinary disruptions she described as preventable.

Board members listened but took no immediate action at the meeting; both speakers said they had provided documents (the hearing officer’s findings and transcripts) to the district.