In a heartbreaking case from Northern California, three former staff members from an alternative school are facing manslaughter charges linked to the death of a 13-year-old student with autism. The charges were announced this week by the El Dorado County District Attorney’s Office regarding an incident that occurred last year at the Guiding Hands School.
The individuals charged include the school’s Executive Director, Sarah Collins, Principal Jenna Lee, and special education teacher Rachel Adams, all of whom are accused of felony involuntary manslaughter. The tragic incident involved a student, identified as Max, who died after allegedly being physically restrained by staff when he became agitated. Reports indicate that he was held face-down on the floor for close to one hour, during which he became unresponsive. Efforts to revive him were made by a teacher, and he was subsequently transported to UC Davis Medical Center.
Additionally, Guiding Hands School, Inc. is being charged with one count of felony involuntary manslaughter, specifically related to the actions taken by Rachel Adams. The prosecutor’s statement highlighted the seriousness of the charges, which followed an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
The special education teacher, Adams, reportedly used a “prone restraint” technique, which involved holding the student face-down. According to various sources, the school had protocols in place for annual de-escalation training, where staff were instructed to only use restraint as a last resort. Guiding Hands School had been in operation for 25 years before the California Department of Education suspended its certification in light of this incident.
State Superintendent Mark Thompson expressed his deep concern regarding the situation, stating, “Revoking a school’s certification is a serious step, and it’s not taken lightly.” He emphasized the importance of ensuring that students are in safe environments where their well-being is prioritized.
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In summary, the tragic death of a young student has led to serious legal repercussions for three employees of a Northern California school, highlighting the urgent need for safe practices in educational settings for children with special needs.