SAMPLE LETTER - Request to Limit School-Police Involvement with Students Who Have Autism
/
Limit School-Police Involvement with Students Who Have Autism - SAMPLE LETTER …..
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number] [Date]
[School Board Name]
[School District Name]
[School District Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Request to Limit Police involvement with Students Who Have Autism
Dear Members of the School Board,
I hope this letter finds you well. My name is [Your Name], and I am the [Your Relationship to the Student] at [School and DIstrict’s Name]. I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the presence of police officers in our schools, particularly in instances where their involvement seems to replace the implementation of strategies outlined in behavioral intervention plans for student with autism.
I fully understand the importance of maintaining a safe and secure learning environment for all students. However, my experience has lead me to question the effectiveness of having police officers involved in situations that require a more nuanced and individualized approach, especially for students with autism who have behavioral challenges.
It has been my experience that, rather than relying on the strategies outlined in my child’s behavioral intervention plan, the immediate response in certain cases has been to involve law enforcement. I believe that this practice is not conducive to the well-being and development of our students, particularly those who may require additional support due to behavioral issues outlined in their intervention plans.
Behavioral intervention plans are designed to provide a structured and supportive framework for addressing the unique needs of students facing behavioral challenges. At best, the presence of police officers, without proper training in the implementation of these plans, may not align with the educational goals and welfare of our students. At worst, the presence of police officers, without proper training in the implementation of these plans, may cause long lasting trauma for the student and the student’s family.
I would like to propose the following actions:
Review and Revise Intervention Policies:
Conduct a thorough review of the current policies regarding the involvement of police officers in school situations, particularly when dealing with students with behavioral challenges.
Provide Comprehensive Training:
Ensure that all personnel, including law enforcement officers stationed in schools, receive comprehensive training on behavioral intervention plans, de-escalation techniques, and strategies for working with students with diverse needs.
Increase Mental Health Resources:
Mandate that districts allow medically necessary school-based tratment to be provided during the school day in any educational situation when indicated by the students medical team.
Encourage Collaboration with Parents:
Encourage open communication and collaboration between school staff, the students family, and students to ensure a unified approach to addressing behavioral challenges.
I kindly request the opportunity to discuss these concerns further in a meeting with the school board. I believe that through open dialogue and collaboration, we can work together to create a safer and more supportive environment for all students.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to the possibility of positive change that benefits the entire school community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Relationship to the Student]