The troubling case of Christine Henson and her 12-year-old daughter Faith at IS 584 in the South Bronx highlights the ongoing debate over the role of police and restraint measures in schools. What began as a routine school day ended with Faith handcuffed to a chair, leaving her family, community advocates, and child welfare experts questioning the use of such punitive measures on young students.
According to Henson, Faith was restrained after an altercation with another student, but the details surrounding the incident remain murky. The school claims Faith became “increasingly agitated,” leading to the intervention of a school safety agent. When Velcro restraints failed, metal handcuffs were used instead. Faith was allegedly left in handcuffs for three hours, though the NYPD disputes this, stating it was no more than 15 minutes.
Regardless of the duration, the emotional and physical toll on Faith is undeniable. The sixth grader described the ordeal as bewildering and painful, stating that the restraint “felt terrible” and “didn’t feel right.”
Her mother echoed the sentiment, calling it a violation of her daughter’s rights and criticizing the school for its handling of the situation. Henson claims the school failed to provide a clear explanation for why Faith was restrained and that she was obstructed from comforting her daughter.
Child and civil rights advocates have condemned the use of handcuffs, arguing that such measures are inappropriate for children, particularly in non-threatening situations.
Rohini Singh of the School Justice Project stated, “If there is no immediate threat, these students should be receiving support. Situations can be de-escalated in ways that don’t require restraints.” Reverend Kevin McCall added, “You send your child to school to learn, not to be placed in handcuffs.”
The incident also underscores systemic issues in how schools manage behavioral crises. Critics point to the over-reliance on law enforcement in educational settings, which disproportionately impacts students of color and those in under-resourced schools. Advocates argue that investments in mental health resources and conflict resolution programs are more effective and humane alternatives.
Faith’s experience has left her deeply shaken. She has expressed fear about returning to school and has sought to transfer out of IS 584. Initially told she could not transfer until the following school year, Faith’s case gained attention, prompting the school to offer a more immediate transfer. However, Henson feels this response is insufficient and plans to pursue legal action, accusing the school of trying to “gloss over” the incident.
The NYC Public Schools have stated they are working to support Faith and her family, highlighting the availability of mental health resources. However, this incident raises larger questions about how schools balance discipline, safety, and student well-being.
