PAO-26: Expulsion Policy

Purpose:

To ensure that no child is expelled from B-5 ECEAP programs due to challenging behaviors. Contractors are required to establish and implement a policy that addresses the needs of children with such behaviors and outlines strategies for managing them without expulsion.

Policy Guidelines:

1. Requirement for Providers: Ephrata School District and ECEAP must ensure providers develop and implement a policy that addresses the needs of children with challenging behaviors and prohibits expulsion. The policy must include the following five key components:

(a) Supporting Classroom Teachers: At the Ephrata School District and ECEAP, a .3 FTE Coach has been hired that has a degree in school psychology and has worked with preschoolers and teachers. Classroom teachers have been provided with strategies to use when working with difficult behaviors.

(b) Planning with Families: For on-going behavior that is hard to redirect, collaboration with family is needed. Collaboration with families is essential to create behavior plans that meet the unique needs of the child.

(c) Engaging Community Resources: Additional support will be sought when needed from Childhood Mental Health Consultant, coach or other professionals to offer additional support.

(d) Choosing Alternative Schedules or Settings: Alternative schedules or settings are considered as a means of meeting the child’s needs without resorting to expulsion.

(e) Staff Training: Staff takes part in annual Safe School Trainings as well as Safety Care training.

2. Escalation Procedures: If the usual strategies are exhausted and the classroom environment remains unsafe or excessively disrupted, DCYF ECEAP will be contacted.
    
3. Inclusive Learning: Ephrata School District and ECEAP foster early learning environments that all children, regardless of behavioral challenges, receive the care and support they need..