by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Current-Issue, Features
The use of seclusion and restraint in schools has become a critical topic of discussion, especially concerning students with disabilities. While these methods are sometimes presented as necessary interventions to manage challenging behaviors, they raise significant...
by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Current-Issue, Parents
BEFORE IT HAPPENS: Parents can take proactive steps to help prevent the use of restraint or seclusion on their child in schools. Here are some effective strategies: Educate Yourself and Your Child – Learn about your child’s specific disabilities, triggers, and...
by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Capitols, Current-Issue, Parents, Professionals, Teachers
While restraint continues to occur in New Jersey schools, the state has made progress in addressing the issue of seclusion and restraint. In 2020, the state enacted a law requiring the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) to collect data on incidents of...
by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Current-Issue, Parents, Professionals, Teachers
In New Jersey, several organizations provide resources, training, and support to help reduce the use of seclusion and restraint for students with disabilities. Here are some key organizations: New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education (NJCIE) – Provides...
by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Capitols, Current-Issue
Q: What is KASSA? KASSA, Keeping All Students Safe Act, is a proposed federal bill designed to restrict the use of these controversial seclusion and restraint practices in educational settings. First introduced in 2010, the bill and its subsequent iterations have...
by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Courts, Current-Issue
The U.S. Supreme Court has declined arguments in a case (Pitta v. Medeiros) looking at whether parents have the right to video recordings of meetings with their child’s school district about special education services. The case involves the Massachusetts father of a...
by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Courts, Current-Issue
The New Jersey State Supreme Court has ruled that students with disabilities are entitled to a free public education even after they earn a General Education Development (GED). The case involves a teen with disabilities who was denied a request to re-enroll in a...
by Common Ground | Sep 27, 2024 | Current-Issue, Snapshot
In the context of special education, “seclusion rooms” may be referred to by various euphemisms that can sometimes obscure their purpose. These terms can vary in meaning and intent, and their use may depend on the specific practices of a school or...
by Common Ground | Jun 12, 2024 | Features
School buses are more than just vehicles to transport students; they are extensions of the educational environment where students spend a considerable amount of time. For students with disabilities, especially those with a 504 Plan or an Individualized Education...
by Common Ground | Jun 12, 2024 | Better IEPs
Transportation is a related service as defined by 34 CFR §300.34(c)(16) of the IDEA regulations. It can include travel to and from school and between schools; travel in and around school buildings; and specialized equipment such as specially modified vans, buses,...
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