5 credits

Educators in this course study selected general legal principles, case and statute law, and law-making agencies that impact leaders and their educational institutions. Key content areas include but are not limited to the legal status of the local school district; the role of federal, state, and local governments that may apply; governance of schools; and policies, rules, and regulations. Education professionals in the course will also cover and develop a practical understanding of the legal rights, responsibilities, and obligations of administrators, teachers, students, parents, and school boards; community education; civil rights; collective bargaining, torts and contracts, and legal research; as well as the development of policy to meet regulations and other provisions. School administrators have an opportunity to become more knowledgeable about finding resources to help them address legal matters as they evolve. Educators will gain the basic knowledge to help develop policy statements as related to their school and to the district as a whole.