Marblehead Elementary School Staff Members Placed on Leave Amidst Review of Student Restraint Protocols

Marblehead, Mass. – Four elementary school staff members in Marblehead have been placed on paid administrative leave as the school district conducts a thorough review of protocols and policies surrounding the restraint of students.

The decision to place the staff members on leave comes after a recent incident involving the restraint of a student. In order to ensure an unbiased evaluation, the district has enlisted the help of an external evaluator to assist in the review process.

Prioritizing Safety and Security

Marblehead Public Schools Interim Superintendent Theresa McGuinness emphasized that the safety and security of all students and staff is the district’s top priority. In a statement, McGuinness stated, “The district will take whatever measures are necessary to ensure that all of our schools are safe and welcoming learning environments for all.”

Guidelines for Student Restraint

According to state guidelines, staff members who have received proper training and certification are allowed to restrain students. However, this measure should only be used as a last resort in specific situations where a student’s behavior poses a threat of assault or imminent, serious physical harm to themselves or others.

The district’s review of protocols and policies aims to ensure that these guidelines are followed appropriately and that student restraint is used responsibly and in accordance with the law.

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