Parents Don't Have Legal Right To Choose Kids' Teachers

By Amy E. Feldman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - What is your legal right to pick your kids' teachers?

You think your parents embarrassed you in high school? The parents of a 9th grader in Florida complained when their son's math class was too hard, and the school agreed to change his class. But when the new class proved not challenging enough for their 'mathlete' - yes, it's like an athlete for math students but WAAAAY less cool - the parents (whom you'll not be surprised to learn are both lawyers) again complained to have his class changed back.

When the school refused, they sued.

What rights do helicopter parents have to choose classes in their kid's best interest? Not as much as they'd like. The Judge ruled that ultimately, the principal has the right to determine class assignments. Which doesn't mean that you shouldn't talk to the administrators if your kid has a problem with a teacher or a class - just be careful what you wish for or your precious mathlete might get exactly what you'd asked for.