Wooden “timeout” boxes used to confine elementary students violated state education rules in a northern New York school district, according to the Times Union.
A law firm hired by the Salmon River Central School District found the boxes broke state regulations governing restraint and seclusion of students. The report said a non-credentialed behaviorist directed their use with special education students.
Investigators concluded the practice was illegal but did not meet the legal standard for child abuse or corporal punishment. The controversy has triggered state and criminal investigations, staff suspensions and calls from community members for broader changes to the district’s special education program.
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