Policy committee adopts special‑education updates tied to Act 4 79, including classroom cameras

The St. Mary Parish Policy Committee voted to adopt revisions to several special‑education policies to comply with Act 4 79, the committee heard. The changes consolidate statutory updates on seclusion and physical restraint and add a requirement that the district operate audio‑video cameras in special‑education classrooms in accordance with procedures set by the superintendent.

"Act 4 79 made substantial changes to special education requirements for students with exceptionalities, particularly in the requirements for seclusion and physical restraint," the committee presenter said. The presenter also said attorneys who reviewed the revisions recommended adoption to ensure the district’s policies align with the revised statutes.

A member raised concerns about parent notification after a seclusion or physical‑restraint incident, noting the policy language reproduces the statute’s timing: notification by phone "as soon as practicable but no later than the end of the same day of school." Doctor Sanders explained that while the policy restates the statutory deadline, the district’s incident procedures — referenced in the packet — list parent contact as a top‑tier, immediate step in practice. "Contacting parents will be one of the immediate steps," Doctor Sanders said, describing the district’s incident protocols.

The committee also reviewed the camera requirement added by statute. The revised policy specifies that the district "will adopt and operate cameras that record both video and audio in each special‑education classroom as required by state law, in accordance with procedures promulgated by the superintendent," and requires notice to parents if cameras are out of service for more than two consecutive days. A board member said the cameras provide protections for both students and staff.

After discussion, the committee approved the consolidated special‑education policy changes, and the related policy sections (including the JDA update clarifying the definition of "physical restraint") by voice vote. The policies are now adopted as revised and will be implemented under the superintendent’s procedures.

The committee’s action concludes formal policy text changes; the superintendent and staff are expected to finalize implementing procedures and any manuals required by law.