Dog Kennels for Kids

Dog Kennels

This story is horrific and unbelievable.  At John F. Kennedy School in Stanislaus County, the regular use of dog-kennel-type enclosures are used for behavioral children.  This school is located on the same campus as Stanislaus County Office of Education (SCOE).  In 2007, a complaint was made to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) regarding these kennels.  Although SCOE defended the use of these kennels, or "Monitored Alternative Locations" or MAL, OCR found them to be a violation of children's civil rights.  These kennels are located on the playground around Building A.  Parents have witnessed seeing and hearing children yelling to be let out.

Copies of the OCR investigation can be found HERE.  Photos of these kennels can be found HERE.

MAL's were used for several children, some without parental consent as the OCR investigation concluded.  Beginning on page 5, OCR provides a detailed description for the MAL and how SCOE violated its own guidelines in the use of the MAL.

The use of skilled paraprofessionals trained in the principles of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), Verbal Behavior, the implementation of well-written Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and common sense would render the use of these kennels obsolete. However, effective behavioral treatment is expensive and dog kennels are cheaper. Children's behavior can be modified in almost all cases, but it takes skilled workers, supportive administrations, time and money. Our children are entitled to this type of intensive intervention but parents must advocate for their child. Call us if you need help!  Please also check out this recent report from the National Disability Rights Network.

SNAFU has been involved with several families whose children attend this school.  Parents have reported they have seen very low expectations by JFK personnel for their children.  Other parents have reported they have been happy with JFK for their child.  If JFK is a proposed placement for your child, or your child currently attends JFK, we encourage you to visit and observe the classrooms and playgrounds often and take notes of your observations.  If you need any help at all, please let us know.  This example should tell parents that they are the protectors of their children and they should work to become and remain fully-informed regarding the education of their special-needs child.  Trust your instincts.  If something doesn't feel right, don't ignore the feeling.  We are here to help and guide you!

Disclaimer:  As with all content on this site, no information is intended nor should be construed as a personal attack on anyone.  Information is deemed accurate but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.  SNAFU welcomes rebuttals, clarification and additional information from all parties.