School seclusion rooms, restraints up for review by Ohio Board of Education

COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Board of Education is expected to vote Tuesday on a new plan regulating the controversial use of seclusion rooms and restraints in public schools.

The plan would require schools to track and report how often they use the restraints or seclusion and to notify parents if the practice is used on their child.

School seclusion rooms are enclosed spaces used to calm or restrain students who become violent. The practice is often used on children with disabilities.

Many local educators are supporting the use of seclusion rooms, saying it's a useful behavior management tool so long as it's used appropriately.

Others say it can be a traumatic experience.

The Tuesday vote could mean school officials will draft a model policy on the use of seclusion rooms. If approved, the policy would go into effect during the 2013-2014 school year.

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