Defending Your South Carolina Teaching Certificate

January 7, 2019 by South Carolina Teacher License Defense

Attorneys Defending South Carolina Teachers

Teachers employed in the public-school system in South Carolina are regulated by contract. The terms of the annual teaching contract and South Carolina law sets forth certain obligations and certain rights. If you are a licensed educator and you have received notice that:

• your contract is in jeopardy and/or will not be renewed;
• you will be placed on administrative leave for an allegation of misconduct;
• you are facing termination and will be reported to the South Carolina Department of Education,

our teaching license defense attorney is here to help. 

As a licensed educator, you know that the nature of teaching has changed in recent years. Teachers are faced with increasing demands, higher expectations, and subject to complaints and/or allegations made by students, parents, and administration. 

Responding to an Administrative Suspension

Depending upon the nature of the allegation, it is not uncommon for a teacher accused of misconduct in South Carolina to be placed on administrative leave while the matter is investigated. Depending upon the nature of the allegation, an internal investigation may include a review of any available video footage and any statements provided by students and/or staff members who witnessed the alleged incident or misconduct. Don’t make the mistake of taking the investigation lightly.  

If you have received notice that you have been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation, a call with our teaching license defense attorney can help you understand the process, your legal rights, and what you can expect. Depending upon the outcome of the investigation, you may be returned to the classroom or face termination. If you face resignation or termination, there are a number of things to consider, including whether you wish to challenge the recommendation and/or whether a report will be made to the South Carolina Department of Education. 

Teachers Investigated By the South Carolina Department of Education

As a licensed educator, it is extremely important to understand that resignation or termination may not end the issue. Depending upon the nature of the allegation, the School District may feel that it is required to report the allegation to the South Carolina Department of Education.

Allegations commonly reported to the South Carolina Department of Education include, but are not limited:

• misconduct involving drugs;
• sexual misconduct;
• the commission of a crime;
• a crime of immorality; moral turpitude or dishonesty.

A matter referred to the South Carolina Department of Education will be investigated. If the matter is not dismissed, it will be referred for a hearing. If you have been advised that a complaint has been initiated against your teaching certificate with the Board of Education, consulting with a South Carolina Education Lawyer.