Father Douglas Kaye demands justice for son Roman at Pleasant Valley School Board hearing

The April 10, 2025, working session of the Pleasant Valley School District Board of Education featured significant public commentary regarding student rights and disciplinary procedures. The meeting began with a call for public participation, allowing community members to voice their concerns.

One of the most impactful statements came from Douglas Kaye, a father of a student named Roman. Kaye expressed serious concerns about the treatment of his son following an accusation of being under the influence of a controlled substance on school grounds. He argued that the accusation was based solely on an unverified statement from another student, who had previously been caught with a vape device. Kaye emphasized that no physical evidence, such as a vape or drug test, was presented against Roman.

Kaye criticized the school's response, which included detaining and isolating his son, as well as conducting a questionable medical evaluation that he described as "pseudoscience." He claimed that the school’s actions violated Roman's constitutional rights, including protections against unreasonable searches and the right to due process. Kaye asserted that the district's failure to follow proper legal protocols could have lasting negative effects on his son's academic record and emotional well-being.

He concluded his remarks by demanding the immediate withdrawal of the accusations against Roman and a revision of the district's policies regarding student treatment in disciplinary matters. Kaye warned that if the district did not take action, he would pursue legal avenues to protect his son and prevent similar situations for other students.

Following Kaye's statement, another community member, Lindsay Nguyen, raised a question, indicating ongoing engagement from the public regarding the district's policies and practices. The meeting underscored the importance of addressing student rights and ensuring fair treatment within the educational system.