Examining Seclusion Rooms in New Brunswick Schools: An NB Update

In this episode of the NB Update, we delve into the controversial use of so-called "seclusion rooms" in New Brunswick's public schools.

The Debate Over Seclusion Rooms

Also referred to as time-out or isolation rooms, seclusion spaces are intended to “provide a safe and calm environment for students” and are used as a last resort to ensure safety. However, critics argue that the practice can be deeply traumatizing for students.

This issue has come under heightened scrutiny following the release of a report by Kelly Lamrock, New Brunswick’s Child, Youth, and Seniors’ Advocate. The report suggests that the use of seclusion rooms in the province's public schools may violate children’s human rights.

The report also highlights a troubling trend: “the disproportionate use of seclusion rooms on students from marginalized communities, primarily students with disabilities.”

Insider Insights and Responses

Disability rights activist Shelley Petit shared her perspective with the NB Media Co-op, revealing that during her time as a public school teacher, she was instructed not to record the use of seclusion.

The Anglophone South School District, where Petit taught, has since stated that there was never a formal policy prohibiting the recording of seclusion room use.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education has acknowledged Lamrock’s report, stating that it is taking the recommendations seriously and “will be taking the necessary steps to respond.”

Additional Updates

This episode also features two other significant stories:

• Canada Post Labour Dispute: Members of the postal workers' union protested outside the Moncton office of Liberal MP and Cabinet minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor after a back-to-work order was issued by the federal Labour Relations board.

• Human Rights Vigil in Moncton: The grassroots organization Citizens for Peace held a candlelight vigil on December 10, International Human Rights Day. The event called for solidarity with individuals facing human rights violations worldwide, including within New Brunswick.

About the NB Update

This edition of the NB Update is hosted by Robert MacKay, an anti-poverty organizer with the NB Common Front for Social Justice. The program is a collaboration between the NB Media Co-op and CHCO TV.

This reporting was made possible in part by the Government of Canada, administered by the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations (CACTUS).