PRACTICE AREA
We counsel public school districts on the full range of governance and compliance matters that define the responsibilities of public entities. Our attorneys assist boards of education in developing, reviewing, and implementing policies that align with statutory requirements and best practices in school governance. We provide practical guidance on board procedures, parliamentary rules, and the roles and responsibilities of elected officials and administrators.
Our practice includes advising on Ohio’s Open Meetings Act (Sunshine Laws) and Public Records Act, ensuring transparency while protecting sensitive and confidential information. We help districts respond to public records requests, balance competing privacy concerns, and maintain compliant record-keeping systems.
We also guide school officials in navigating Ohio’s ethics laws, including conflicts-of-interest rules, financial disclosure obligations, and restrictions on public contracting. By combining legal expertise with a nuanced understanding of public sector operations, we help boards operate effectively, lawfully, and in a manner that builds public trust.
Whether through policy development, board training, or day-to-day legal advice, our goal is to provide clear, reliable counsel that supports effective governance and safeguards the integrity of the district’s operations.
Advising on student rights and discipline, residency, student privacy and FERPA compliance, Title IX enforcement, and general regulatory compliance.
Guiding districts through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and due process hearings.
Handling teacher contracts and tenure, collective bargaining and union relations, workplace harassment and retaliation claims, discrimination, and family and medical leave issues.
Offering strategic counsel on a wide array of school-related legal matters including litigation defense, policy development, contract negotiation, and grievance arbitration.