COMMERCE, Texas—Commerce Independent School District (ISD) administrators were alerted on Monday, September 8th, to an incident involving a teacher and a student at Commerce Elementary School. The individual involved was a one-on-one special education teacher.
Following the notification, the district launched an internal investigation, which resulted in the teacher's resignation. The report alleged that the teacher used an improper physical restraint on a student. Initially, it was reported that two students were involved, but the school district clarified that the investigation determined that only one student was involved and that "this was an isolated incident." The investigation also concluded that the teacher failed to follow their training in proper restraint procedures. According to Superintendent Steven Drummond, all Commerce ISD special education teachers are trained in Safety-Care protocols, which are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of students. The investigation was completed within 24 hours of the initial report.
Commerce ISD has also reported the incident to the Commerce Police Department, the Commerce ISD Police Department, and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, adhering to Texas Education Agency procedures.
A police investigation into the matter is currently ongoing. The district has stated that the safety and well-being of students remain its highest priority, and it is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment.
