1. Incident Investigation (Must Come First)
The school must gather:
- a clear timeline
- factual statements from staff
- context and triggers
- adult responses
- what the student was doing before and after the event
If the investigation is incomplete, the suspension cannot proceed.
2. Review of Reasonable Adjustments
The principal must check whether supports were:
- planned
- implemented
- monitored
- in place at the time of the incident
If adjustments were missing, the incident may have been preventable — and suspension may not be legally justified.
3. Consideration of Alternatives to Suspension
The principal must consider:
- whether the behaviour plan can be updated
- whether a support meeting is needed first
- whether a modified timetable would solve the issue
- whether further investigation is needed
4. Consultation with Parents / SSG (If Applicable)
Parents must be given the opportunity to:
- respond to the incident information
- correct inaccuracies
- share relevant disability or wellbeing factors
This step must occur before the principal makes a decision.
5. Principal-Only Decision
Only the principal can legally decide on a suspension.
The assistant principal cannot make this decision.
Any decision made by the wrong person is invalid under MO1125.
6. Written Suspension Notice
The written notice must include:
- the reason for suspension
- date and duration
- summary of investigation
- adjustments reviewed
- alternatives considered
- parent participation rights
7. Return-to-School Meeting
This meeting must occur after the suspension and must cover:
- a review of the incident
- updated behaviour and support plans
- strategies to prevent recurrence
- a reintegration plan
A reintegration plan is mandatory for every suspension.