Tuesday October 9, 2012 – 6:30 – 8:00 pm
100 Walnut Street, Room 217
Restraint and seclusion is a topic appearing in the news, is part of a Massachusetts state initiative and National discussion. This evening NPS staff will review NPS practices related to restraint and seclusion. There will be time for general questions. A method for sharing specific concerns will be provided.
Judy Levin-Charns, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services,
Maura McLaughlin-Tynes, Director of Elementary Special Education, and
Dan Almeida, Supervisor of Applied Behavioral Analysis Services
Background information-
From Dan Almeida, NPS follows DESE guidelines that require:
1. We do not forcibly bring a child into a room and require them to stay there alone. A staff person must be in the room with a student unless the child decides to stay in a room alone to calm down.
2. Parents must be notified of restraints over 5 min. within 24 hrs. and a written report sent home within 3 days. In training staff, my recommendation is to report any restraint to parents.
3. Restraint is only used as a last resort and in cases of the threat of serious, imminent harm to self or others.
While there are secluded spaces for students to go in many of the schools, they are appropriately lit and safe–no closets. Many have bean bag chairs, books, etc. to aid in de-escalation.
Massachusetts Interagency Restraint/Seclusion Prevention Initiative
http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/consumer/family-services/child-care-support/interagency-restraint-and-seclusion-prevention.html
Senate Hearing, July 12, 2012
Full Committee Hearing – Beyond Seclusion and Restraint: Creating Positive Learning Environments for All Students
http://www.help.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=28ddbd0d-5056-9502-5dea-7197eb6434c8
Discipline of students with disabilities
NPS procedures are outlined in the Students’ Rights and Responsibilities Handbook 2012-2013
Newton, MA SEPAC 