Use when a child or teen was suspended, expelled, or sent home from school and the family needs to understand their rights, prepare for a hearing, or keep the student learning.
In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Find out what happened
You can ask"What did the school say happened? How many days? Did you get a letter?"
You can ask"Does your child have an IEP or a 504 plan?"
You can say"This is hard. Let's make sure your child keeps learning and gets a fair process."
2Know the basic rights
You can say"Don't sign a paper giving up the hearing until you understand it."
3Get help with the hearing
Pegasus Legal Services for Children
Legal help for children, youth, young parents and relative caregivers
2005 Hwy 180 W, Suite 500, Silver City · Phone intake Mon-Thu 9:30 am-4:00 pm at 1-833-545-4357; online application any time at newmexicolegalaid.org. Silver City office: 575-388-0091.
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.