Restraint and Seclusion

Restraint and Seclusion in Oregon Public Education Programs

Oregon public education programs must follow clearly defined laws and administrative rules governing the use of restraint and seclusion. These practices are permitted only to protect individuals from substantial physical or bodily injury (in the case of restraint) or from a reasonable risk of imminent and serious bodily injury (in the case of seclusion), and only when less restrictive interventions are ineffective. Oregon law emphasizes prevention, student dignity, and trauma-informed practices, aligning with national efforts to reduce the use of exclusionary and aversive interventions.

The Oregon Department of Education (ODE) is committed to supporting public education programs through technical assistance, guidance, and approval of training providers to ensure safe, inclusive, and legally compliant learning environments for all students.

Oregon Resources

• ODE Approved Training Programs - May 2024 -;A list of programs approved by ODE for training staff in safe de-escalation and crisis prevention.
  
• ODE Sample Forms: Restraint and Seclusion - These sample forms are intended to assist in meeting requirements and are not mandated for use.  Public education programs have full discretion to develop their own policies, procedures and practices that meet all federal and state requirements
  
• Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 581-021-0550 to 581-021-0570 - List of the full set of state rules governing the use, documentation, and reporting of restraint and seclusion in schools.
  
• Restraint and Seclusion Technical Assistance and Guidelines Manual - Comprehensive guidance on implementation, prevention strategies, and compliance related to restraint and seclusion.
  

ODE Quick Reference One-Pagers

• Preventing Restraint and Seclusion: Definitions and Incident Documentation Requirements - Defines key terms and outlines what must be included when documenting incidents.
  
• Preventing Restraint and Seclusion: Definitions and Annual Reporting Requirements - Explains annual reporting expectations and requirements for schools and districts.
• Differentiating Seclusion Rooms from Clears - Clarifies the legal and functional differences between seclusion and classroom clears, including examples.
  

Data Collections

Information on the Restraint and Seclusion Incidents and Seclusion Rooms data collections.

Federal Guidance & Resources on Restraint and Seclusion

Arranged by Publication Date

U.S. Department of Education: Secretary Cardona's Policy Letter (Published: January 2025)
In January 2025, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona issued a letter expressing concern over the continued use of restraint and seclusion in schools. The letter emphasizes that these practices are harmful and lack evidence of effectiveness. It urges educational leaders to prioritize safe, supportive, and responsive learning environments.

Using Functional Behavioral Assessments to Create Supportive Learning Environments ( Published: November 2024)
This U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services & Office of Elementary and Secondary Education resource outlines how to use Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) as a foundation for effective behavior supports and inclusive practices.

Positive, Proactive Approaches to Supporting Children with Disabilities: A Guide for Stakeholders ( Published: July 2022)
This U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs guide offers practical recommendations to help schools, families, and communities create positive and inclusive learning environments for students with disabilities.

U.S. Department of Education: Restraint and Seclusion Resource Document (Published: 2012 and updated in 2018)
The U.S. Department of Education released an updated resource document outlining 15 guiding principles for developing policies on restraint and seclusion. These principles stress prevention, the use of positive behavioral interventions, and the protection of students' rights to dignity and freedom from abuse.

Contact

Lisa Joy Bateman