Monday, February 11, 2008

Seclusion Room Update

I haven't been writing much (obviously), and I have been reading the blogs I have on queue, but not taking the time to comment much (sorry!). I am focusing more energy on the seclusion room issue. I have been researching, gathering information, preparing to meet with my legislators, etc. I met with the special education administrator and some of the coordinators, and it was a good discussion. I was disheartened that all of the schools in the district except for one has a seclusion room in it. Apparently foster kids are scary? I am going to set up a separate blog regarding my efforts about seclusion room/time out/restraint policies in my district, and eventually the state. I am in this for the long haul, and I hear it can be a long, long haul.

7 comments:

Casdok said...

Yes these things can I have got a few things changed over the years, and it can be very stressful, but with our kids as inpsiration it is worth it.
Good for you!

Niksmom said...

Ange, I have so much respect for your efforts in this area. I hope others get on board and help you make the changes you envision. xo

Keep it like a secret said...

Wow, talking to legislators! And I can hardly bring myself to make a phone call for Obama! You rock!

Stimey said...

Fantastic. Good luck!

Anonymous said...

Hi Ange:

I am wondering if you are from Massachusetts because it is very similar in that state. Seclusion rooms, time out rooms, parents being required to sign restraint forms if they want to be accepted (and remain) in an ABA center and other type of private schools, etc. Massachusetts is all about restraints and the lack of proactive strategies and positive behavior supports is stunning.

Keep up the great work on this. It is so important that untrained therapists, aides and teachers stop restraining kids.

Ange said...

Sorry, not MASS, but rather MO.

Anonymous said...

Sorry to hear it is similar there in terms of restraints. Very well trained people in the field do not have to resort to this. It is amzing how proud these centers are of their time out "closets" and their restraints and parents fall for it as being "necessary." Truly ignorant.