What is restraint?

Restraint can take form in different ways. Mechanical restraint is defined as any device or object used to limit a student's movement. The use of mechanical restraint is prohibited in Kansas except those protective or stabilizing devices ordered by a person appropriately licensed to issue the order for the device.

Mechanical restraint used by a law enforcement officer in carrying out law enforcement duties is allowed. Seatbelts and/or other safety equipment when used to secure students during transportation are also allowed.

The definition of physical restraint is bodily force used to substantially limit a student's movement. The use of prone physical restraint (face-down) and supine physical restraint (face-up) are prohibited. Physical restraint may not obstruct the airway of the student or impact the student's primary mode of communication.

Chemical restraint is prohibited in Kansas, except as prescribed treatments for a student's medical or psychiatric condition by a person appropriately licensed to issue these treatments. Chemical restraint is defined as the use of medication to control violent physical behavior or restrict a student's freedom of movement.

Reference: K.A.R. 91-42-1(a), (d), (f)

What is seclusion?

According to K.A.R. 91-42-1 (h), seclusion is defined when used with a student, and all the following conditions are met:

1. the child is placed in an enclosed area by school personnel;

2. the child is purposefully isolated from other adults and peers; and,

3. the child is prevented from leaving, or reasonably believes that the student will be prevented form leaving, the enclosed area.

Time-out is not the same as seclusion. Time-out is when a student is temporarily removed from the learning activity, without being confined.