Project Background

How So You Need to Sue Your School? came to be

Growing up in rural Maine as a student belonging to mutliple marginalized identites, I didn't have the easiest time.

Unfortunately, I regularly experienced discrimination at the hands of my peers, my teachers, and the administration of my school. Though my family and I worked hard to convince the administration to make changes that would ensure my school was a safer space for all, they refused to comply. We were forced to enter litigation, which was a long, drawn-out process filled with pitfalls, confusing legal jargon, and unexpected twists and turns that were incredibly difficult to keep track of. It wasn't easy, and ultimately, we didn't get what we were hoping to out of it. However, one thing we did gain was knowledge.

In processes like this, knowledge is power. Having someone to help guide us through what to expect, what resources we'd need, what we should be aware of, where we should be cautious, and what we might need we know would have made a big difference. Because we have the privilege and position of knowing how the process works, I am now able to craft a resource that exists as that guide as you begin your journey.

With the resources provided to me through the Shaw Innovation Fellowship, I was able to conduct research that allowed me to build this resource manual. Under Institutional Review Board apporval from the University of Southern Maine, I conducted literature research and reviews, did over six hours of interviews with industry professionals in education, mental health, civil rights, and more, and drew from my personal experiences to bring you So You Need to Sue Your School?

The version you see here today is just the first iteration- as a living document hosted on its own website, it will continually be updated to reflect current law, expectations, and ebst practice. Hopefully, it has a long life ahead of it serving Maine's marginalized communities. If you have anything you think would be helpful to add, please don't hesistate to contact the creator, and if you have anyone you think might be able to use it, please share!

Thank you for being here!