How do you handle a principal who is being too aggressive toward a student?

I was called in for a meeting with a 'problematic student,' his mom, our school principal, and guidance counselor. Basically, the child comes from a not-so-stable home, and needs extra help with everything he does... The guidance counselor was very sweet and patient, and seems to get along well with the child.

At first, things were going well, and the student was speaking his mind very maturely, but as soon as the principal started to speak the whole vibe changed.... She was being super aggressive, saying "you can't not show up to class!" and "we will NOT tolerate this sort of behavior!" This was 100% the wrong approach to dealing with the student, but it was like the principal had her own agenda as to how to deal with this..... I wanted to say something so bad, especially when I saw the student starting to shut down. His body language completely change.... he slouched in his chair, avoided eye contact, and barely spoke after that.... But I held my tongue, being a new teacher and all.

How would you guys handle this situation?