Navigating the Complexities of Restraint and Seclusion and the Intersection of Child Abuse Investigations
Restraint and seclusion are reactive strategies used to address the risk of significant physical harm or serious bodily injury when other interventions have proven ineffective in maintaining the safety of students, staff, and the school community. While permissible by law, improper use of these strategies can jeopardize students’ entitlement to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and may constitute disability discrimination. Additionally, reliance on restraint and seclusion is non-relational, fails to teach valuable lessons or skills, and carries inherent risks.
This session aims to equip attendees with resources for prevention, intervention, and de-escalation techniques to reduce reliance on reactive practices. Representatives from the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) and the Oregon Office of Training, Investigations & Safety (OTIS) will work with participants to deepen their understanding of how restraint, seclusion, and child abuse intersect within Oregon’s recently updated statutory framework. A strong understanding of these laws, including the updated requirements, will empower attendees to prioritize effective, relational, and student-centered approaches aimed at preventing the need for restraint and seclusion.
The presentation will also share best practices for complying with new statutory requirements regarding the use of restraint or seclusion, including incident reporting and response procedures if these strategies are utilized. Educators will leave this session better prepared to create an inclusive educational environment that fosters the success of all students, without resorting to harmful or exclusionary discipline practices.
Agenda:
- Ableism, Equity, Definitions & Data
- Recent Legislation
- OTIS Investigations
- Literature Review and Federal Guidance
- Oregon State Laws and Regulations
- Reporting Requirements
- Adult Responses
- Q&A
Presenters:
Oregon Department of Education: Lisa Joy Bateman & Patrick Kelly
OTIS: Shanti Slocomb & McKenzie Fauth
Who Should Attend:
Special Education Staff (Directors/Teachers) and Administration (Principals/Superintendents)
*This event is reserved for school staff working in Columbia, Clatsop, Tillamook, & Washington Counties*
Outside of our region, but need this training?
Contact your regional RTAP.
Date: Thursday, February 6
Start: 2:30 pm
End: 4:00 pm
Location:
This event is virtual on Zoom. A link will be accessible upon registration, located under 'site'.
Accommodations:
We strive to make our events accessible and inclusive to participants from all backgrounds and abilities. All virtual sessions will have automated closed captioning available. If you need ASL interpretation, please email ASLinterpreterrequests@nwresd.k12.or.us. If you need additional accommodations, please contact Sabine Eaton at seaton@nwresd.k12.or.us or 503-614-1351. At least two weeks advance notice will help us to provide seamless access.
About Northwest Regional Education Service District:
Northwest Regional ESD is the largest of Oregon’s 19 education service districts. We serve students, educators, childcare providers, and families living in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook, and Washington counties. Our staff members work collaboratively with school districts and other educational partners to deliver quality, cost-effective programs and services including special education, technology, professional development, school improvement, and operational support. Our vision is that every student is educated, equipped, and inspired to achieve their full potential and enrich their communities. Learn more at nwresd.org.
All event registrations require a PDNetworks account. If you have not already, follow this step-by-step guide to create your account.
