It is still legal in our state for teachers to use physical force (corporal punishment) on students. And, unfortunately, abuse happens.
RCW 9A.16.100 allows teachers to physically correct a child by force.
Multiple families have reported incidences of physical abuse by teachers. Abusers often receive delayed or no consequences.
There is no central tracking system of these incidents. Abusers can move from school to school and district to district.
Revise RCW 9A.16.100 to make it unlawful for teachers to physically correct a child by force.
Establish a statewide uniform system for complaints, so parents and communities can make a complaint or see if an adult who is exhibiting abusive behavior has a history of doing so.
Institute a code of educator ethics that bans physical abuse in schools.
How you can help:
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If you or someone you know has been impacted by physical abuse or corporal punishment in Washington State schools, we want to hear from you. Your personal experiences help illustrate the importance of this issue. Together, we can make change.
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