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Board reviews restraint and seclusion policy updates emphasizing de-escalation and parent notification
Summary
Board reviewed Policy JM and related guidance requiring restraint and seclusion only for safety reasons, mandated training modules, parent notification and incident documentation; administrators described level-one and level-two training and training-of-trainers approach.
Dr. Medley reviewed the annual Policy JM restraint-and-seclusion update, saying the policy allows restraint and seclusion only as behavioral interventions consistent with Virginia Board of Education guidance and not as disciplinary measures.
"Such restraint and seclusion is not used as a disciplinary measure but as to keep students from harming themselves or others," Dr. Medley said, and added that proactive strategies and de-escalation are emphasized prior to any restraint. He explained that staff complete VDOE-sponsored modules, that level-two advanced training is provided to at least one administrator per building and to staff who work with students with identified needs, and that incidents are documented with parent notification and debrief meetings.
Board members asked about training for school security personnel; Dr. Medley explained that security officers are included in a train-the-trainer model and that certified trainers in the division can train additional staff. The presentation noted local choices in advanced training methods and confirmed that documentation and follow-up are required when level-two restraints are used.
The board approved the regulation updates that operationalize the policy changes (Regulation EB) related to emergency medications, AED readiness and cardiac response drills discussed elsewhere in the meeting.
