January 1 2026 Newsletter

1. Jessica 10th grade
   I got pulled out of class and told I’d be suspended for “disrespect.” I didn’t know I could ask what rule I broke, so I accepted it. Later, when something similar happened, I asked for the specific policy—and the situation stopped there.

2. Albany 11th grade
   My job kept scheduling me until midnight on school nights. I thought if I complained I’d get fired. Once I learned there were limits for students, I brought it up and my manager changed the schedule that same week.

3. Mark 9th grade
   A staff member searched my bag without explaining why. I felt uncomfortable but didn’t say anything. After learning my rights, the next time I asked for a reason—and the search didn’t happen.

4. Sofia 12th grade
   I was told I couldn’t appeal a discipline decision and that it was “final.” I didn’t know that wasn’t true, so I took the punishment. Later, knowing I had the right to appeal, I challenged a similar decision and got it reduced.

5. Ariella 10th grade
   I was pressured to sign a work form on the spot and told I’d lose the job if I didn’t. I signed without reading it and ended up getting paid less than promised. At my next job, I asked for time to review the paperwork—and avoided the same mistake.

6. Kolan 11th grade
   I was denied access to the bathroom during a long exam and told to wait. I didn’t know I could push back, and it seriously affected my performance. Later, I spoke up in the same situation and was allowed to leave.

7. Margaret 9th grade
   I was told my phone would be taken for the entire semester unless my parent came in. I thought there was no other option. After learning school discipline rules, I asked for the written policy—and the consequence changed.

8. Peras 12th grade
   I was told I couldn’t wear something tied to my culture because it “violated dress code.” I didn’t argue and felt singled out. Later, knowing my rights, I raised the issue and was told it was allowed.

9. Sasha 10th grade
   A teacher refused to correct a grading error and told me not to question it. I didn’t know I could escalate it, so my grade stayed wrong. Later in the year, I asked for a formal review and the grade was fixed.

10. Tim 11th grade
    I was questioned about something that happened at school and felt pressured to explain myself immediately. I didn’t know I could ask for a parent or take time before responding. Later, knowing that right, I handled a similar situation very differently.