The Principal Accused Me of Being Argumentative!

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My daughter has pulmonary hypertension. Her cardiologist’s orders say no physical activity – “must be excused from PE.” The principal informed me that she would HAVE to participate in PE.

When I disagreed, the principal accused me of being argumentative. What should I do?

First, you need to document what happened in the meeting by writing a “Letter to a Stranger.”

Your letter should document:

  • your child’s medical history
  • what her doctors told you
  • what the principal said in the meeting

Your letter needs to be factual, not emotional. Let the facts tell the story. Here’s how-

Read this article before you start to write: https://www.wrightslaw.com/advoc/articles/Letter_to_Stranger.html

Second, ask the doctor to write a letter describing your daughter’s condition. Have the doctor explain what she should not do.

Attach the doctor’s letter to your letter.

Your Letter as Evidence

If you don’t “put it in writing” and you have problems with this principal in the future, you have no proof that he took this unreasonable position.

If you DO put it in writing, your letter is the best way to protect your daughter now and in the future.

How to Write Good Evidence Letters

  • Learn more about writing effective letters to the school
  • Avoid letter-writing pitfalls
  • Find 16 sample letters

See Chapter 23: How to Write Good Evidence Letters and Chapter 24: Writing the “Letter to a Stranger” in Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy, 2nd Edition.

  1. Document everything that the principle said in writing and make copies. I would actually send this along with a letter to the Super Intendant and Director of Special Education. He had no right to say that. Make sure that your daughters health issues are documented also. I would request mediation with the school to get to the bottom of what is going on. You can also contact your state and parenting training center.
    http://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center/

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