Parents demand accountability over misuse of restraints at Jamison Elementary

The Central Bucks School District's recent board meeting on February 21, 2025, was marked by intense discussions surrounding allegations of abuse and mistreatment of students, particularly those with autism, at Jamison Elementary School. The meeting highlighted the emotional and legal ramifications of a Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) investigation that found instances of illegal restraints used on students, including nonverbal children.

A parent, whose son is autistic and nonverbal, shared a deeply personal account of her experiences with the school. She revealed that her son had been restrained multiple times without her knowledge, a situation that only came to light through media reports and board discussions. The parent expressed her frustration over the lack of communication from school officials regarding the allegations and the subsequent investigation. She emphasized the emotional toll this has taken on her family, stating, "My trust in the school to keep my son safe and to support his needs has been destroyed."

The PDE's investigation concluded that the school's behavior support plans were not followed, leading to the use of restraints for durations ranging from 20 to 40 minutes. The parent described this as just "the tip of the iceberg," indicating that there were broader issues of neglect and abuse that needed to be addressed. She called for accountability, stating that her son deserves a safe and supportive learning environment.

The board meeting also featured critical questions directed at Superintendent Dr. Yanni and other district officials regarding their handling of the allegations. Several community members expressed their concerns about the apparent cover-up of the incidents and questioned the integrity of the district's leadership. One speaker pointedly remarked that the cover-up is often worse than the crime itself, urging the board to take decisive action against those responsible.

In response to the allegations, board members discussed the need for stability within the district, citing ongoing challenges such as a realignment of elementary schools and recent leadership changes. However, many community members argued that the safety and well-being of students should take precedence over administrative stability.

The meeting concluded with a call for transparency and accountability from the district. Parents and community members demanded that the board take immediate action to ensure the safety of all students, particularly those with special needs. As the district faces scrutiny over its practices, the community remains vigilant, advocating for the rights and dignity of every child in the school system. The implications of this meeting extend beyond Jamison Elementary, raising critical questions about how schools support vulnerable populations and the responsibilities of educators in safeguarding their students.