Here's a breakdown:
* Legitimate Reasons for Restrictions: Schools can limit access for reasons of safety and security, such as during active shooter drills, following a specific threat, or to maintain order during school events. They can also limit access to specific areas (like classrooms during instruction) for pedagogical reasons. They can require visitors to check in at the office and show identification.
* Parental Rights: Parents generally have a right to participate in their children's education. This includes things like attending school events, meeting with teachers, and reviewing their child's academic records. Denying these rights without a compelling reason would be problematic.
* Due Process: If a school denies a parent access, they usually need to provide a reason and potentially offer some form of appeal process. Simply barring a parent without explanation would likely be challenged.
* Disruptive Behavior: If a parent is disruptive or engaging in inappropriate behavior on campus, the school can certainly ask them to leave and potentially ban them from future visits.
* Legal Action: If a parent believes their rights have been violated, they could potentially pursue legal action.
In short, while a public school can't entirely shut parents out, they can implement reasonable security measures and address disruptive behavior. A blanket ban on parental visits would likely be legally challenged and unsuccessful unless there's a demonstrable and justifiable reason for it. The key is whether the restrictions are reasonable and justified.