Restraint and Seclusion: A Persistent Challenge

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Restraint and Seclusion: A Persistent Challenge
Language: English
Authors: Melissa D. Hullett (ORCID 0009-0006-3216-9769), Antonis Katsiyannis (ORCID 0000-0003-0487-965X)
Source: Intervention in School and Clinic. 2026 61(4):200-205.
Availability: SAGE Publications and Hammill Institute on Disabilities. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: https://sagepub.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 6
Publication Date: 2026
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Descriptors: Punishment, Students with Disabilities, Discipline, Student Rights, Elementary Secondary Education, Federal Legislation, Equal Education, Educational Legislation, School Districts, Student Behavior, Special Education, Professional Development, Evidence Based Practice, Educational Policy, Policy Formation
Geographic Terms: South Carolina
Laws, Policies and Program Identifiers: Rehabilitation Act 1973 (Section 504), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
DOI: 10.1177/10534512251408025
ISSN: 1053-4512
1538-4810
Abstract: Restraint and seclusion procedures employed by educators continue to be a persistent and controversial issue that may fail to provide a free, appropriate public education to students and consequently violate U.S. Section 504 and/or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. There are 172 pending cases currently under investigation at elementary, secondary, and post-secondary schools by the Office for Civil Rights from January 1, 2014, to August 30, 2025 (47 since January 1, 2024). To illustrate the nature of these settlements, a recent representative settlement from South Carolina will be discussed, given the large number of incidents without any action taken by the district. It is crucial that school districts review and update their policies and procedures related to restraint and seclusion to ensure compliance. Themes of recent decisions/settlements are highlighted, and resources for improved practice are provided.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1496427
Database: ERIC
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