Can I pull my kid out of school while an OCR complaint is still open?

My child has special needs and has been bullied nonstop for six years. I filed a complaint with OCR, but it’s still being reviewed. The school hasn’t done anything about the bullying at all. Can I take my kid out of the school now, or will that mess things up with the complaint?

You should be able to withdraw your child whenever you need to, but I’d check with OCR just to be sure it doesn’t affect your case.

Lesley said:
You should be able to withdraw your child whenever you need to, but I’d check with OCR just to be sure it doesn’t affect your case.

That’s a good idea. I didn’t think about how it could impact the complaint. Thanks for the heads up!

Lesley said:
You should be able to withdraw your child whenever you need to, but I’d check with OCR just to be sure it doesn’t affect your case.

OCR usually focuses on the school’s actions, not whether your child is still enrolled, but confirming it is always smart.

If the bullying is that bad, I’d get them out ASAP. It’s not worth the stress for them to stay in that environment.

Kirby said:
If the bullying is that bad, I’d get them out ASAP. It’s not worth the stress for them to stay in that environment.

I feel the same, but I don’t want to accidentally mess up the process by rushing things.

Kirby said:
If the bullying is that bad, I’d get them out ASAP. It’s not worth the stress for them to stay in that environment.

Totally understandable. Maybe look into alternatives like homeschooling or a charter school?

Do you have legal advice yet? They could help explain how pulling your child out would play into the case.

Fay said:
Do you have legal advice yet? They could help explain how pulling your child out would play into the case.

Not yet, but I’m starting to think I need one. Appreciate the suggestion!

Fay said:
Do you have legal advice yet? They could help explain how pulling your child out would play into the case.

FYI, some lawyers will give you a free first consultation. Could be worth checking out!

IDK much about OCR, but I’d put your kid’s safety and mental health first. That should be the priority.

Yan said:
IDK much about OCR, but I’d put your kid’s safety and mental health first. That should be the priority.

Exactly. It’s so frustrating that the school hasn’t done anything about this for so long.

Yan said:
IDK much about OCR, but I’d put your kid’s safety and mental health first. That should be the priority.

Agreed. You’re the best advocate for your child—do what’s right for them.

Have you thought about contacting the school board or even local media? Sometimes public pressure gets faster results.

Cass said:
Have you thought about contacting the school board or even local media? Sometimes public pressure gets faster results.

Not yet, but it’s something I might consider. Maybe that’ll make them actually take action.

Cass said:
Have you thought about contacting the school board or even local media? Sometimes public pressure gets faster results.

It could work, but only if you’re ready for the attention it might bring. Do what feels manageable for you.