Your school is required to hold a conference no later than the third school day after which your child was removed from class. You should not have to request it. They should call you to schedule it. However, if they have not tried to schedule the conference, then you can request it. If they say that they do not have to hold a conference, you should show them Section 37.009(a) of the Texas Education Code and tell them that you are entitled to a conference. If they still will not hold a conference, request one in writing via email or by delivering a handwritten letter. Mention Section 37.009(a) of the Texas Education Code in your email or letter. If you deliver a handwritten letter, make sure that it is dated and make sure that you ask for a written receipt. If your school still will not hold a conference, file a grievance under FNG (LOCAL), the grievance process for students and parents. Learn more about the grievance process on Texas Appleseed's website here or the Texas Education Agency (TEA) site here.
Hopefully your school administration is familiar with the Texas Education Code and, accordingly, schedules a conference with you and your child. At the conference, the principal must tell you why your child is being punished and the terms of the proposed punishment, including the student code of conduct provision which was allegedly violated and the length of the proposed punishment. You have a right to defend your child at the conference and a right to respond to what the principal says about your child’s behavior. You can also bring an attorney if you choose to hire one. If you are interested in hiring an attorney, choose one that focuses on school law.