Some Vt. students are restrained or secluded. Should the practices be eliminated?

BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - Vermont students with behavioral challenges are at some schools confined to small, institutional rooms to calm down, or being immobilized when they act out — sometimes without the knowledge of parents and caregivers.

The far-flung cases reflect the statewide reach of long-standing practices known as seclusion and physical restraint. That’s despite the fact that many medical professionals, and even the U.S. Department of Education, warn that the practices are ineffective and can leave lasting psychological scars.

Darren Perron spoke with Seven Days’ Alison Novak who reported on the ongoing practice in this week’s issue.

Related Stories:

Harwood school officials propose changes to restraint and seclusion policy

Report: Behavioral and emotional issues on the rise among Vt. children

Harwood Union Unified School District reevaluating restraint procedures

Vermont school district reviewing student restraint and seclusion practices

School Threats: The story behind the headlines

Analysis: What lies behind rash of school threats?

Report: Threats, violence taking toll on US educators

Preventing classroom conflicts: Helping students who need additional behavioral support

Copyright 2023 WCAX. All rights reserved.