Disability rights group finds abuse of special education students in Central Bucks schools.
In a troubling development, a report from Disability Rights PA has uncovered allegations of abuse within a special education classroom at Jamison Elementary School in the Central Bucks School District, highlighting significant administrative failures in addressing these issues. According to the report, credible allegations against a teacher and an educational assistant were substantiated through interviews with multiple staff members, including a personal care assistant who lodged a complaint in November.
The report outlines alarming incidents where the teacher and assistant reportedly used illegal restraints on two students in an autism support classroom, a situation exacerbated by the fact that the restraints were not reported as mandated by Pennsylvania state law. The report indicated that the actions posed a serious risk of bodily harm and may have interfered with the students’ breathing.
Furthermore, the behavior of the staff members extended beyond physical abuse; they allegedly facilitated an environment that risked sexual abuse or exploitation. One student was reportedly encouraged to engage in inappropriate behaviors without any correction from the staff, failing to provide essential guidance regarding acceptable conduct within the classroom setting.
As the report reveals, all four students in the classroom were subjected to daily experiences of illegal restraints, neglect, and demeaning treatment, creating a psychologically damaging atmosphere that could have long-lasting effects. The findings prompted significant concern regarding the administrative response from the Central Bucks School District, particularly by Superintendent Steven Yanni, who has been criticized for the inadequacy of the district’s internal investigation. Reportedly, this investigation produced no evidence of abuse, despite corroborating accounts from staff that suggested otherwise.
The district’s assistant superintendent acknowledged the serious nature of the report and stated that the board would review its contents thoroughly. Although a law firm has been hired to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations, results have yet to be disclosed. The district leaders have expressed a commitment to implement necessary actions based on both the independent inquiry and the findings from Disability Rights PA.
According to the report, there were also significant delays in reporting the allegations to ChildLine, the state’s child protective services hotline. When the district finally did file a report, it was alleged that relevant information was withheld, hampering any proper investigation into the claims.
Amid ongoing scrutiny, Disability Rights PA has called for appropriate disciplinary measures against the implicated staff members and suggested that district administrators should also face consequences for their handling of the situation. Advocacy for improved accountability and the safeguarding of students within educational institutions remains essential as this case unfolds.
