Officials to Hold Hearing on Seclusion, Restraint in Schools

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — Education officials are going to take public input on a proposal that would allow schools to physically subdue students only in emergency situations.

The Board of Education voted Thursday to hold a public hearing on rules governing the use of seclusion and restraint in schools.

Linda Turner is director of special education programs at the state Department of Education. She says many states have been moving to adopt regulations on the practices. The federal government has also raised concerns about seclusion and restraint.

Restraint can include immobilizing students to safely prevent them from harming themselves or others.

Turner has said the proposed regulations are important to ensure that South Dakota students aren't hurt and that educators have the proper training.

The public hearing is expected to happen in March.

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