My son recently joined a private high school in Florida, but we faced some problems. After school, he went to the beach with friends, and apparently, one of the girls had some drinks, which brought the police. The school accused him of drinking and buying the alcohol, though he denied it. They made the group do chores like cleaning bathrooms and kitchens. We decided this school wasn’t the right fit and withdrew him, but they initially held onto his passport and wouldn’t let him leave. After numerous emails and messages, they finally let him go. Now, I’m trying to get a refund for the tuition we paid. Any tips on how to handle this?
That’s rough. Did they explain why they were holding his passport?
Roux said:
That’s rough. Did they explain why they were holding his passport?
Not really, just kept saying it was part of their school policy. Felt very unnecessary.
Roux said:
That’s rough. Did they explain why they were holding his passport?
Sounds like they were trying to exert control. Pretty sure that’s not allowed.
Have you checked the enrollment contract? Refunds can depend a lot on what’s in there.
Lane said:
Have you checked the enrollment contract? Refunds can depend a lot on what’s in there.
I’ve started looking through it. It’s not super clear, but it doesn’t explicitly say refunds aren’t allowed.
Lane said:
Have you checked the enrollment contract? Refunds can depend a lot on what’s in there.
If it’s vague, you might have a chance to argue for at least a partial refund.
Were they treating all the students the same, or was your son singled out?
Francis said:
Were they treating all the students the same, or was your son singled out?
They disciplined everyone involved, but they seemed more focused on him during their meetings.
Francis said:
Were they treating all the students the same, or was your son singled out?
That’s frustrating. Definitely keep all your communication—it could help if this escalates.
If the school refuses to refund, you might need to consider legal action. Have you thought about that?
Jonas said:
If the school refuses to refund, you might need to consider legal action. Have you thought about that?
I’m hoping to avoid that, but it’s on my mind if things don’t get resolved soon.
Jonas said:
If the school refuses to refund, you might need to consider legal action. Have you thought about that?
You could start with a formal demand letter. Sometimes that’s enough to get them to respond.
Sounds like you made the right call pulling him out. That school’s behavior seems off.
Zola said:
Sounds like you made the right call pulling him out. That school’s behavior seems off.
Totally agree. It was the best decision for him, even if it’s been a hassle since.
Zola said:
Sounds like you made the right call pulling him out. That school’s behavior seems off.
Good luck with the refund! Hope it works out soon.