281—14.8(279) Classroom clears.

1. 14.8(1)  A classroom teacher may clear students from the classroom only if necessary to prevent or terminate an imminent threat of bodily injury to a student or another person in the classroom. A threat is imminent when it is reasonably likely to inflict pain, illness, or any other impairment of physical condition.
2. 14.8(2)  A classroom clear means clearing all other students out of the classroom to calm a child. A classroom clear in which an adult remains with a student to calm the student is not considered seclusion.
3. 14.8(3)  The limitations on use of classroom clears pertains to all classrooms, general and special education, ages 3 through 21, when a child is served in a setting that is using public funds for educational purposes.
4. 14.8(4)  If a classroom clear is included within a school’s or district’s crisis response plan, the school or district will also follow the additional provisions of Iowa Code section 279.51A and this division.

5. 14.8(5)  In determining if a classroom clear may be used to prevent or terminate an imminent threat, the following factors apply:

   1. a. The size and physical, mental, and psychological condition of the student;
   2. b. The nature of the student’s behavior;
   3. c. The presence of a weapon or material that can be weaponized;
   4. d. The extent and nature of resulting bodily injury to the student and other persons in the classroom; and
   5. e. The prevention of physical intervention that will likely escalate behavior and result in bodily injury.

[ARC 7788C, IAB 4/17/24, effective 5/22/24]