Having taught in the public school system and now teaching in the private sector... I'll be blunt.... Its stupid. Plain and simple. I can understand the reason the "rule" is in place...many people being allowed to teach that shouldnt and using their position of authority for nefarious purposes, but...where does it go too far?? When a struggling child can't even get a hug to calm them, there is a problem. I teach elementary school and my classroom thrives on hugs. I am a mom first, teacher second, and momma my "kids" at school all the time. I know their parents and look out for them as if they were my own. This involves hugs of joy, hugs when they are upset, the drying of tears, and a kiss on the top of the head if necessary. I will not refuse a child emotional support and luckily, where I teach, that is not a problem.

The public schools have many issues, not just scholastically. I'll stop there or I will end up on my soapbox. Lol

*hugs* honey...all will work itself out. And you might look into that support animal possibility. In that case, no different than for a blind person or someone with seizures, an assist animal is an assist animal. I would they they would be obligated to allow it. Especially if dogs are allowed for those with PTSD.

~Seanachai~