Administrative Procedure 354

PHYSICAL RESTRAINT OF STUDENTS

Background

The Superintendent directs that staff shall seek to utilize positive means in dealing with student behaviour (Administrative Procedure 350). However, when physical restraints are appropriate, the Superintendent directs that the least restrictive measure which is likely to be effective be used to control the situation.

Definition

Physical restraint refers to action taken by a staff member that results in the restraint of a student for the purposes of immobilizing the student and subduing unacceptable behaviour until such time as there are indications that the student is capable of self-control.

Procedures

1. Appropriate physical restraint may be used by School employees in crisis situations when a student is causing, or is likely to cause, physical harm to himself or others.
2. The Superintendent understands that specific students may require individualized programs that incorporate physical restraint procedures. These however shall be in the best interests of the students and in strict compliance with the following procedures.
3. Planned Behavioural Programs Involving the Use of Physical Restraint
3.1 An individual program shall be jointly developed by the home, the School, the Superintendent and an outside agency or professional competent in behaviour management.
3.2 Each program shall address, as its primary goal, the development of new behaviours through positive means that will reduce the likelihood of severe inappropriate behaviour.
3.3 Each program shall outline, in strict behavioural terms, when and how physical restraint procedures are to be used. The least restrictive physical restraint procedure which will be effective shall be used in the program.
3.4 Each program shall specify the type of individualized documentation it requires.
3.5 Each program shall be approved prior to being implemented by the Superintendent who may at any time terminate the program.
3.6 The informed consent of the parent(s) must be obtained in writing prior to implementation of the program.
3.6.1 This consent may be terminated at any time upon submission of written notice by the parent(s).
3.6.2 In the event that parental consent is refused it may be necessary to excuse or expel the student from School.                                                                           3.7 Each program shall be supervised on a regular basis by a professional named by the Superintendent. This
supervision shall include routine evaluation of the effectiveness and of the appropriateness of the program.
3.8 All staff members who may, as part of their responsibilities in the program, be required to use physical
restraint procedures shall be properly trained in these procedures prior to implementation of the
program.
3.9 It is the responsibility of the Principal to ensure that the above procedures are adhered to. If the
Principal has concerns regarding the effectiveness of appropriateness of the program, the
Superintendent shall be informed.

References: Section 8, 11, 25, 26, 31, 32, 33, 35.1, 36, 37, 52, 53, 196, 197, 222, 225, 257 Education
Act Occupational Health and Safety Tobacco,
Smoking and Vaping Reduction Act
Review by the Minister Information Bulletin 3.5.1
Board Policy 13 – Appeals and Hearings Regarding Student Matters