"Atascocita- Special needs student wanders away from school"

TortieMama : Aww that is so sad. The very people that's supposed to watch the children apparently aren't watching these children.

Maxsmom : Right. Glad that she is ok.

Maxsmom : I will add that...they are probably looking at their phones too!

TortieMama : Absolutely because apparently they weren't watching the children

TortieMama : I saw this the other day .... This is right across the street from me. This could have turned out so bad, but most people in the neighborhood are great.

Catmae : Right. They were probably paying more attention to their PHONE than the children!

Maxsmom : I hope some disciplinary action has taken place. Extra concerning because they are special needs.

It's not as simple putting your phone down. I have to admit that when I worked in PE we did not have phones to carry around. This was back in the middle '80s. So I don't know if the teachers are allowed to take their phones out or not. I can tell you though, the administration made it difficult for us because during the afternoon classes which would be three periods, we would have three classes dumped on us all at once. So two of us had to watch 65 to 70 kids out in PE class. This was first grade through third grade. When the special needs kids came an aid usually came with them. This was very helpful but sometimes they did not come out with them and so two people are watching 65 to 70 kids in PE class. I worked elementary school for 14 years and this was always the case. So give these teachers a break. It isn't always easy.

TortieMama : Are teachers even allowed to bring their cell phones out at this time? I could see them allowed for emergencies, etc., but not sure. I'll need to ask a teacher.Just sent a text to my DIL ...

Catmae : Did she reply yet as to the phone policy?

TortieMama : Yes ... she said each district has different cell phone policies, but she highly doubted if they'd be allowed. (She also used to work as an administrator in the New Caney School District)

Catmae : Well, at least the child is safe. Thanks.