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Committee tables proposed trauma-informed policy after debate over mandatory language and guardrails
Summary
The policy committee debated adopting PSBA language for Policy 1461 (trauma‑informed approach), with members seeking to change mandatory 'shall' wording to optional 'may' and to add definitions and guardrails for restorative and social-emotional practices; the committee agreed to table the policy for further drafting.
The Upper Adams School District policy committee tabled consideration of Policy 1461, a proposed trauma-informed approach, after extended discussion about scope, mandatory language and safeguards.
Mr. Lustig reiterated his prior recommendation to replace directive language — such as 'the board shall review' — with softer wording like 'the board may consider a trauma-informed approach when reviewing' to preserve board flexibility while retaining the list of resources and partnerships. Several committee members said many of the practices named in the policy (partnerships, school-climate measures, and some curricula) already exist in district work, but disagreed about whether a board-level mandate was appropriate.
Members pressed for clearer definitions and 'guardrails' for social-emotional learning and restorative practices, asking that the policy specify widely agreed topics (resilience, responsible decision-making, self-management and seeking help) and explicitly state that disciplinary policies must still 'effectively manage student behavior while also, when appropriate, incorporating restorative practices.' One member cited widely publicized national cases as a reason to ensure discipline remains effective.
To build consensus, the committee agreed to change instances of 'shall' to 'may' where appropriate, add definitional language (possibly in the policy’s definition section), and return the revised draft at the next policy meeting. The motion to table was approved by consensus.
