What do federal guidelines state about the use of restraint and seclusion in schools?

Federal guidelines regarding the use of restraint and seclusion in schools emphasize that such measures should only be applied in emergency situations where there is an immediate risk of harm to the student or others. This means that restraint and seclusion are not permissible as a form of punishment or routine management of behavior. The focus is on ensuring safety, and thus, the guidelines mandate that these interventions should only be used when absolutely necessary to prevent harm during crises.

Reducing the use of these measures underscores the importance of applying proactive and positive behavioral interventions that promote students' well-being and prevent incidents from escalating to a point where restraint or seclusion becomes a consideration. It is crucial for schools to have policies in place that guide how to respond to behavior issues without resorting to restraint or seclusion unless absolutely required for safety.