I got dressed down today

I am a new teacher this year. One of my classes is an "impact" class. An impact class is just a support class. Kids get extra help, take AR tests, and have some free time. I teach 4th grade. One of the classes is for students who are "struggling." Verbatim quote from my principal.<br><br>Well today, during our morning meeting, one of my students was being very difficult. She was pulling her hair, making sounds, and just having a rough time. I went over to her and put my hand on her shoulder, and said "I'm here. If you need to take a break, I can take you to a quiet spot." Then I got my principal's voice behind me. "Don't touch her. Don't talk to her. Don't try to help her." Then she told me to go to the hall. I went and she called me into another room after class. I got reamed. She said I should not help that student. I should not talk to her. I should just let her go if she needs to go to the bathroom, get a drink, etc.. I am not even supposed to make eye contact with her.<br><br>Well fast forward to my last "impact" class of the day. Student B is having a very difficult time. She is scratching herself everywhere, crying, and just having a very hard time. I ignored her and kept going over the lesson I had. When class was over, she went to the principal's office. I got called to the office and got reamed AGAIN! This time I was told I should have raised my hand and asked to call someone for her. I asked why I couldn't just call the secretary. She said "you are not trained to make judgment calls."<br><br>I am so confused. She told me to ignore a student having a meltdown and not to ask for help. I am not supposed to make eye contact, talk to, or otherwise help a student who is struggling. How do you handle students having meltdowns? What is the protocol?