Use of Reasonable Force

Conditions under which staff may use reasonable physical force.

Policy No. 3246

Students

It is the policy of the Montesano School Board of Directors that the district maintains a safe learning environment while treating all students with dignity and respect. All students in the district will remain free from the unreasonable use of force.

District staff may use reasonable force to maintain order or to prevent a student from harming him/herself other students and school staff or property.

Physical force is reasonable when needed to prevent or minimize imminent bodily injury or substantial or great bodily harm to self or others. If de-escalation interventions have failed or are inappropriate, reasonable physical force may be used to protect district property.

Use of mechanical restraint or chemical spray is reasonable only under the following conditions and only when used by authorized and trained district staff after de-escalation interventions have failed or are inappropriate:

A. If the student’s behavior poses a threat of imminent bodily injury or substantial or great harm to self or others; or

B. To prevent significant property damage.

Physical force, mechanical restraints, chemical spray or less than lethal devices will not be used as a form of discipline or punishment.

This policy is intended to address students enrolled in the district and not intended to prevent or limit the use of reasonable force or restraint as necessary with other adults or youth from outside the school as allowed by law.

The superintendent will annually report to the board on the use of force. The superintendent or a designee will develop procedures to implement this policy.

Legal References: RCW 9A.16.020 Use of Force — When lawful 9A.16.100 Use of Force on Children — Policy — Actions presumed unreasonable

28A.150.300 Corporal Punishment Prohibited

Chapter 392-172A WAC Rules for the Provision of Special

Education

392-400-235 Discipline — Conditions and limitations

Management Resources:

Policy News, December 2008 Use of Reasonable Force Policy

First Reading: February 21, 2013

Adoption Date: March 21, 2013

School District Name:

Revised: 12.08; 12.11 7.16

Classification: Priority