By PAT NEWMAN
pnewman@thecitizennews.com

A new state law that gives teachers the authority to remove seriously disruptive students from their classes has prompted Fayette County school officials to look at an alternative education plan for elementary grade students.

Dr. Pam Riddle, head of elementary school operations, said there is a growing need in Fayette County for an intervention program at this level to provide appropriate instruction for these students. The alternative school housed at the LaFayette Education Center provides an intervention program for middle and high school students, but there is nothing for elementary-age children.

Following a visit to an elementary intervention program set up in Douglas County, Riddle told the school board recently that a classroom of 12 students with two full-time teachers, two paraprofessionals and a part-time counselor would be appropriate. Riddle stressed the need for intervention instead of punishment. Parent involvement would be another important component of the program, she said.

Elementary school students can be placed in in-school suspension, but there is currently no plan in place for instructing the students.