Can I request my daughter's 9th grade transcript despite an unpaid balance?

Full question:

My daughter did her 9th grade in a private christian school in Tujunga, I pulled her out of that school because it was very unorganized. The teacher will put movies on and fall asleep in the classroom. Payments were not kept very current, now she is going to a different christian high school where she is a junior. Now she will be a senior next year. We recently found out that her former school has not sent her transcripts from the 9th grade, because they say we have a balance therefore they won't send the transcript until the balance is paid, therefore my daughter won't be able to graduate next year. Without the 9th grade transcript, do I have a legal right to request for that transcript?

  • Category: Contracts
  • Subcategory: Breach of Contract
  • Date:
  • State: National

Answer:

Generally, if a school has a policy of withholding transcripts for unpaid tuition, they may not release an official transcript until the balance is settled. However, you can take steps to address this issue. Consider scheduling a meeting with the registrar at your daughter's current school to explain the situation. Let them know you need the transcript to help her complete her education and that you plan to pay the outstanding balance. You might also offer a partial payment to show your commitment.

Additionally, check with the current school to see if they would accept alternative documentation, such as report cards or grade reports, in lieu of an official transcript. You could also ask her former teachers for a letter confirming her attendance and grades. By communicating your situation clearly, you may find a way to meet the transcript requirement without fully resolving the balance immediately.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Yes, private high schools can expel students for poor academic performance. Unlike public schools, private institutions have more discretion in setting their own academic standards and policies. If a student consistently fails to meet these standards, the school may take disciplinary action, including expulsion. However, schools typically have a duty to provide support and resources to help students improve before resorting to expulsion.