The use of restraint and seclusion in the schools has been an issue of significant concern and activity at a local as well as national level. The Our Children Left Behind organization (a volunteer, parent-led organization) has done significant work for the rights of children with disabilities and their families in Special Education law and policy and now see this as a priority in their work.

It is vital that you know that there are discussions going on within the Senate and that there is a possibility that the Senate might pass a bill that would not prohibit the use of restraint/seclusion as a planned intervention in a student’s IEP.   Now is the time to educate ourselves about this issue so that we all can be ready to advocate for our children’s safety at the national level once the Senate bill has taken its final form and is presented for debate. 

Visit the Our Chilldren Left Behind web site to follow these bills that have passed in the House of Representatives and as introduced in the Senate.