Throughout the country, teachers in the public school system have rights that are granted to them by the constitution. However, teachers working in private schools do not have as many rights. Public schools allow for the application of constitutional rights since they are a public property.
In New Jersey public schools, tenured teachers have the right to due process. Being tenured means that you have a certain amount of rights that protect you from being fired or having your salary tampered with. Tenure protects teachers from being dismissed for personal or political reasons. It also protects teachers from punishments that are deemed irrational, such as salary reduction or a demotion. If you are a teacher who receives a notice involving your termination, you have the right to question it. In order to decide how valid the termination of your job is, you have the right to call a hearing into session. This will present the reason for your termination and examine the truth behind it.
Even if tenure has not yet been granted to a teacher, there are still rules that can protect you. There are time restrictions in effect before a school can deny renewal of a contract. If the school fails to follow these time restrictions, then you can be automatically renewed as a teacher. As a teacher, you have a right to ask for a written explanation of why you were dismissed from your job. You also have a right to have a hearing in front of the school board. You can then present your case to the administration and try to prove that they have made a mistake in dismissing you from your duties.
Teachers also have a right to bring an action to court. This is an opportunity to present your case to a judge and show them what you believe to be any unreasonable treatment from the school’s administration. In order to get the best outcome for your case, consult an attorney first. Teachers have the right to be represented in these cases. Professional attorneys may help present your case.
The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. Please contact the office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding criminal charges and procedures.