If you follow local legislation having to do with restraint and seclusion in Wisconsin schools, then you’re probably aware of a newly proposed bill that would prohibit teachers and staff from physically restraining students in public schools, except in very specific circumstances and emergency situations. Though this is an example of legislation local to CPI’s home state, legislation related to restraint and seclusion use is a concern of schools nationwide.

The idea behind this proposed bill isn’t a new one. A similar bill was introduced in the Wisconsin legislative session last year and didn’t make it. Some disability groups thought the proposed law was necessary to prevent use of dangerous techniques on children, while some education groups worried that it would keep teachers from being able to do what’s necessary to protect students from harming themselves and others around them.

This time around, disability groups and others with the best interests of children with special needs in mind are again supportive of the proposed law, as these students tend to be those who are more likely to be restrained or secluded which can be psychologically traumatizing. And personally, I agree, because we need to protect those students who are most vulnerable.

Different from last year, however, according to a recent article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, is that there’s more support for the proposed bill than before, mainly because the bill now outlines when and how it may be appropriate for an administrator to use some methods of seclusion or restraint. It also specifies these methods can only be used by staff who have gone through appropriate physical restraint training. The bill also emphasizes the use of positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS).

I hope that this time, the bill receives the support it needs to come into effect. No matter which side you’re on, the bottom line is that we need to protect not only our students, but our teachers and staff as well, and this bill can help ensure that safety. Let’s make Wisconsin an example that other state and federal legislation can follow.

The bill proposal is scheduled for a hearing on January 11. To view the bill text, visit the Wisconsin Legislative Documents website. Watch for more information on our site about the proposed bill as it becomes available.