Introduction
As a candidate running for the Washoe County School Board, I am deeply committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. In this blog post, we’ll explore critical safety concerns related to discipline processes within our schools. These issues impact not only student well-being but also their ability to learn effectively.
The Right to a Safe Learning Environment
According to NRS 388.132, every student has the right to a safe learning environment. This legal provision emphasizes the district’s responsibility to maintain safety within our schools. However, recent incidents reveal that this right is often compromised.
Violations and Behavioral Challenges
Severe behavioral issues among students pose a significant challenge. Unfortunately, these issues lead to violations of the right to safety. Children with such challenges are sometimes placed in classrooms where they shouldn’t be, affecting both their own safety and that of their peers.
Parental Input and Building Relationships
The Washoe County School District (WCSD) must prioritize parental input. Engaging parents and guardians is crucial for creating a safer educational environment. Additionally, building strong relationships with families fosters trust and collaboration.
Special Education Funding
Safety concerns are compounded by the district’s refusal to properly fund special education. Adequate resources are essential for meeting the diverse needs of students with disabilities. Insufficient funding impacts safety protocols and support services.
Real-Life Example: Jessie Beck
At Jessie Beck Elementary, discipline processes have unintended consequences. When a student misbehaves, they are sent to the office and rewarded with a toy. However, upon returning to class, the teacher asks them to put the toy away, leading to frustration and further disruptive behavior. This inconsistency contributes to an unsafe classroom atmosphere.
Learning Disruptions During Evacuations
A critical question arises: How can children learn effectively during evacuations? Frequent disruptions due to evacuations hinder academic progress and create anxiety among students. We must address this issue to ensure continuity in learning.
Parental Awareness and Escalating Behaviors
Parents often underestimate the severity of disruptions. Behaviors escalate gradually, and students become accustomed to them. By the time evacuations occur, children perceive them as normal, which is not acceptable. We need better communication and awareness.
Transparency and Information Requests
Transparency is essential. Unfortunately, when parents seek information about evacuations, the district often refuses and even bans them from volunteering. This lack of transparency hinders parents’ ability to advocate for their children’s safety effectively.
Conclusion
As a school board candidate, I am committed to addressing these safety concerns head-on. We must prioritize student safety, engage parents, allocate adequate resources, and ensure transparent communication. Together, we can create safer schools where every child thrives.