How to fight the Professional Standards Commission (PSC)

We Fight the Professional Standards Commission

Contact The Law Office of B. A. Thomas, LLC at (404) 525-6902 if you have been contacted by the Professional Standards Commission (PSC).  The PSC is an administrative body that governs the teacher certification process within the State of Georgia.  The PSC has the authority to sanction and ultimately revoke an educator’s certification.

Educators who teach within the public sector are required to uphold various statutory requirements.  Educators must also uphold what is known as the PSC’s Code of Ethics.  The “Code of Ethics” is composed of eleven standards that govern an educator’s actions and behaviors.  Although the standards typically apply to behavior that is conducted in direct relation to day-to-day school functions, the standards can also be applied to actions and/or behaviors that occur in an educator’s personal life.  For more information on The Law Office of B. A. Thomas, LLC visit www.theTeachersLawyer.com.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1.   What happens if the PSC receives a complaint about me?

When the PSC receives a complaint about an educator, they will initially assess the information and determine if an investigation is warranted.  It is important to note that the PSC is not required to investigate every complaint that they receive.

2.   How will my certification be effected if the PSC determines that an investigation is warranted?

Dependent upon the outcome of an investigation, the PSC has the authority to recommend the following disciplinary actions: (1) warning; (2) reprimand; (3) suspension (1 day minimum up to 3 years maximum); or revocation.

3.   What happens if I receive a recommended sanction from the PSC?

If you are sanctioned by the PSC, the key thing to remember is that you have the right to contest it by way of a hearing.  Much like the options that are afforded you in a non-renewal/termination situation, an educator can request a formal hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).  It is imperative that every educator become well-versed with the Code of Ethics.  Receiving notification that a complaint has been filed against you can often be shocking and confusing.  It can be especially disturbing to realize that a complaint, whether true or untrue, can eventually lead to a loss in employment.  These types of complaints can also prevent you from gaining employment in the future.  If you find that you are ever faced with such a complaint, it is important that you have a clear understanding of your rights.

4.   What should I do if the PSC contacts me?

Contact an Education law immediately.  Contacting an attorney that specializes in education matters is recommended. An experienced education attorney will be able to successfully orchestrate a proper defense on your behalf and can often negotiate a more favorable outcome.  This can be the deciding factor on whether or not you will be allowed to teach within the State of Georgia.

With the assistance of counsel, you can determine what your options are and what outcome is in your best interest.  It is important to remember that all sanctions remain on the educator’s record indefinitely.