The process of removing a student from school is wrought with emotion on both sides — Anger, Embarrassment, suspicion, anxiety. For the most part family members and administrators do not typically go through these administrative hearings more than once and do not know what to expect.
After fifteen years of serving as the "judge" in school disciplinary matters pertaining to student expulsions, Attorney Michael Mackniak brings his experience to anyone, who may be involved for the first time or the hundredth.
Mackniak takes a no-nonsense approach to his role as an independent hearing officer and his book The Expulsion Hearing: An Administrative Guide, demonstrates this from its opening remarks. The reader immediately shares his sense of fairness and appreciation for the education of all students. Coming from a family full of educators, and as a witness to both sides of the arguments, Mackniak is uniquely positioned to write to anyone involved in the uncomfortable process of student discipline.
The tenor of his approach is best summarized in its closing statement:
"Where I can be a mediator I will be. Where I can bring levity to an uncomfortable situation, I try. Where I can be an authority figure to impress upon a student the seriousness of the matter at hand, I oblige both for the benefit of the educator and the family. Where I can remind people that we are all in one room for a common goal- the education of OUR children- I am honored and, I am grateful for the opportunity."
