Child Safety
Our schools and children’s residential facilities must be safe environments where faculty and students can focus on teaching, learning and treatment without fear of emotional or physical harm. Parents should be confident that the individuals with whom they entrust their children will protect them from social and physical threats. Schools and residential facilities should implement an evidence-based, proactive approach to school safety that meets the unique learning and emotional needs of the children they serve . But, unfortunately, far too often, these institutions are not always safe. Whether it is abusive disciplinary practices, the dangerous use of seclusion or restraint on students, risks posed by predators on campus, or bullying, poor safety policies put children at risk and are barriers to children’s academic growth and social development.
Committee Democrats are committed to ensuring that schools and residential facilities are safe and positive learning environments for all children. Because a patchwork of state laws fails to protect all children from acts of violence, abuse, and neglect, minimum national standards are needed to ensure children’s safety and limit the unnecessary risks posed by dangers like predators and abusive disciplinary or restraint practices.
Key Documents
Democratic Principles for the Reauthorization of ESEA
Miller Asks GAO to Investigate Cases of Abuse and Neglect of Schoolchildren
Key Legislation: