Saturday, January 25, 2014

Updated info on restraint and seclusion

How Safe Is The Schoolhouse? An Analysis of State Seclusion and Restraint Laws and Policies, updated January 20, 2014, contains information updated through January 2014 about state restraint and seclusion statutes, regulations, and policies. 

The purpose of How Safe is the Schoolhouse is to analyze and compare state restraint and seclusion laws and guidance and provide information on trends (e.g. the number of states with a particular feature and exceptions to that feature).  Seclusion and restraint are highly dangerous interventions that have led to death, injury, and trauma in children.  They stand in sharp contrast to positive behavioral support programs and de-escalation techniques that resolve most challenging situations.  More states adopted statutes and regulations restricting use of restraint and seclusion in 2013.  The report examines how the majority of states still operate under weak laws and laws with loopholes that undermine seemingly-strong protections. It also analyzes features of strong laws and proposals that would protect children and create positive learning environments.

How Safe is the Schoolhouse uses 51 "states" to include the District of Columbia.  The report finds that as of January 2014:
  • Only 19 states have laws providing meaningful protections against both restraint and seclusion for all children; 32, for children with disabilities.  
  • Only 14 states by law require that an emergency threatening physical danger exist before restraint can be used for all children; 18, for children with disabilities.  Restraint must be limited to these emergencies because it is dangerous; the GAO documented the deaths of 20 children from restraint alone.  Many state laws have loopholes that circumvent protections.
  • There are 34 states that in their laws or guidance would define seclusion as a room a child cannot exit (door is locked, or blocked by furniture, equipment, child-proofing, staff, etc.).  There are 11 states that protect all children from non-emergency seclusion; 17 protect children with disabilities.  By law, only 1 state bans all seclusion for all children; 4, for children with disabilities.  Another 10 have statutes and regulations applicable to all children that limit seclusion to emergencies threatening physical harm.  13 apply this standard to children with disabilities.  Seclusion is highly dangerous.  Students have died, attempted suicide, and been injured and traumatized.  Students have been secluded for hours each school day and repeatedly.
  • Only 17 states by law require that less intrusive methods either fail or be deemed ineffective before seclusion/restraint are used on all children; 23, children with disabilities.  By contrast, in school districts and schools where positive behavioral support programs are used, restraint and seclusion use is minimal, if at all.  Behavior improves and more students spend time learning--rather than in confinement rooms and restraint.
  • Restraints that impede breathing and threaten life are forbidden by law in only 21 states for all children; 28 states, for children with disabilities.  Mechanical restraints include chairs and other devices that children are locked into; duct tape, bungee cords, ties, and rope used to restrain children; and other devices.  Only 15 states ban mechanical restraint for all children; 19 for students with disabilities.  Only 15 states ban dangerous chemical restraints for all children.  Children locked and tied into mechanical restraints and confined in seclusion rooms at particularly grave risk.
  • In 20 states, schools must by law notify all parents of both restraint and seclusion; in 32, parents of students with disabilities.  The vast majority of states favor notification in 1 day or less, either in their laws or recommended policies.  (See Parental Notification Laws at a Glance, p.38).  It is important to notify parents quickly, so they can seek medical care for injuries (hidden or obvious) and trauma.  Notification also enables parents to work with schools to implement positive supports and prevent further use of restraint or seclusion.
  • Data collection is very important.  In its 2009 report, the GAO found that state data collection varied significantly.  Only 12 states collect even minimal data for all students; 19 for students with disabilities.  More states require data keeping at the state, local, or school level, indicating that keeping such records is not burdensome.   Data gives schools benchmarks to measure themselves against and enables public oversight and sunshine.  
Arizona adopted a new statute providing some limited protections from seclusion, Arizona House Bill HB 2476, signed by Governor Janice K. Brewer amended A. R. 5. § 15-843.  Thank you to Rep. Kelly Townsend for introducing the legislation, and Hope Kirsch for speaking before the House and Senate in support of the legislation.

How Safe is the Schoolhouse is updated twice a year. The next update will be in Summer 2014, when several state legislative sessions end.  The report is available free of charge at 

For people who simply want to quickly see very brief highlights their own state law or policy, there is a sister report, My State’s Seclusion & Restraint Laws (http://www.autcom.org/pdf/MyStateRestraintSeclusionLaws.pdf).


Friday, January 17, 2014

10 Things Every Parent Needs to Know About Special Education and IEPs

Kirsch-Goodwin & Kirsch's Hope Kirsch and Lori Kirsch-Goodwin will be guest speakers at East Valley Autism Network (EVAN) on Tuesday, January 28, 2014 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, discussing "10 Things Every Parent Needs to Know About Special Education and IEPs." In addition, they will provide an update on "Legal Rights Concerning Restraint and Seclusion."

For more information, contact the wonderful moms who run the group:

Melissa Van Hook
melissavanhook@hotmail.com
(480) 231-4214

Holly Reycraft
hreycraft@cox.net
(602) 703-6500

Katie Wride
wridetribe@cox.net
(480) 252-1577

E V A N
East Valley Autism Network
Check EVAN out on facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/East-Valley-Autism-Network-EVAN/277227152394587


 

Sunday, January 12, 2014

Upcoming Autism Conference

KGK's Hope Kirsch will be a guest speaker at AZA United's annual conference on March 7th & 8th, 2014 TRANSDISCIPLINARY AUTISM CONFERENCE. Please join her along with other leaders in the field. https://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?EventID=1268236

Arizona Autism United's 4th annual Transdisciplinary Autism Conference is a community event for parents and professionals of all kinds who work with and care about people with autism.  This year's conference includes an exciting and informative lineup of nationally renowned speakers and local experts. Presentations include a wide range of topics for parents and professionals of all backgrounds, with practical strategies to assist children and young adults of all levels

The Transdisciplinary Autism Conference features more than 20 expert speakers from a range of fields and disciplines.  A wide variety of topics is included to help individuals with autism of all ages, at all levels of the autism spectrum.  Presentations are available for all audience levels, from beginner to advanced concepts. Speakers include:

  • Behavior Analysts (CEUs available)
  • Speech Therapists
  • Special Education Professionals
  • Parent Leaders
  • Psychologists & Counselors
  • Advocacy Specialists
  • Holistic Health Practitioners
  • Siblings and Family Members
  • Adults with Autism
  Keynote Speakers:

KEYNOTE:  Dr. Greg Hanley,
 BCBA-D
Western New England University
Dr. Hanley is well regarded for his highly successful work in treating sleep problems and challenging behaviors in autism, and is also known for his easy to follow and entertaining presentation style.  On Friday, March 7th, Dr. Hanley will deliver his keynote presentation: Meaningful Solutions for Some Extraordinary Problem Behaviors Associated with Autism.


KEYNOTE:  Rupert Isaacson
Creator of The Horse Boy Documentary
Rupert is a father, a journalist, and the star of this award winning film that documents his family's trek across the globe to find help for his son.  On Saturday, March 8th, Rupert will tell his story with messages of hope and possibility for all families. Based on a method he has created called Horse Boy Learning, this presentation will include practical techniques, beautiful images, fun anecdotes, and a host of good tips for all.

Special Guests:
Adam Larsen, Filmmaker
Creator of the Documentary: Neurotypical
Adam's film premiered this year on PBS and provides an unprecedented exploration of autism from the point of view of autistic people themselves.  Through in-depth profiles and interviews capturing toddlers, teens and adults, viewers are challenged to question the concept of "normal."  Join Adam for a meet & greet, Q&A session, and live screening of the full-length version of Neurotypical.




Wolf Dunaway, Adult with Autism

The Autistic Werewolf
Wolf Dunaway was featured in the recent documentary airing on PBS, Neurotypical.  He is an adult with autism, an advocate, and soon to be a published author.  As a speaker at schools, organizations, institutions and universities, Mr. Dunaway provides unique perspectives and insights to explore the unique challenges of the Autism Life Experience.

Breakout Session Speakers:


Amy Kenzer, Ph.D., BCBA-D

Clinical Services Director
Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center
www.AutismCenter.org





Joe Gentry, Ph.D., BCBA-D
Licensed Psychologist & Clinical Director
Gentry Pediatric Behavioral Services
www.GentryPBS.com





Raun Melmed, M.D.
Developmental Pediatrician & Clinical Director
The Melmed Center
www.MelmedCenter.com





Jim Adams, Ph.D.
Director
ASU Autism/Asperger's Research Program
autism.asu.edu





Nicolette Piano, M.S., CCC-SLP
Director of Speech & Language Services
Arizona Autism United
www.AZAunited.org





Debbie Weidinger
Executive Director
AZ ASSIST
www.AZassist.com





Carey Burgess, M.S., BCBA/LBA
Director of Behavioral Consultation Services
Arizona Autism United
www.AZAunited.org





Hope Kirsch
Special Education Attorney
Kirsch-Goodwin & Kirsch, PLLC
www.azSpecialEducationLawyers.com





Ehren Werntz, M.S., BCBA/LBA
Program Director
Arizona Autism United
www.AZAunited.org





Christopher J. Smith, Ph.D.
Vice President & Research Director
Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center
www.AutismCenter.org





Amy Maschue, M.S., CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Author of "10 Minutes for Talking"
www.10minutesfortalking.com





Abby Twyman, M.Ed., BCBA/LBA
Owner and Director
BASIC in Arizona
www.basicAZ.com





Linda Kraynak, M. Ed.
Peer Autism Awareness Trainer
Arizona Autism United
www.AZAunited.org

Friday, January 10, 2014

AZA United's 2014 Transdisciplinary Autism Conference

KGK's Hope Kirsch will be a guest presenter at AZA United's annual conference on March 7th, the 2014 TRANSDISCIPLINARY AUTISM CONFERENCE. Please join her along with other incredible leaders in the field. https://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?EventID=1268236
Join us for this one-of-a-kind conference experience!

Arizona Autism United's 4th annual Transdisciplinary Autism Conference is a community event for parents and professionals of all kinds who work with and care about people with autism.  This year's conference includes an exciting and informative lineup of nationally renowned speakers and local experts. Presentations include a wide range of topics for parents and professionals of all backgrounds, with practical strategies to assist children and young adults of all levels.   


Every year, AZA United's Transdisciplinary Autism Conference features a wide variety of presentations from speakers of all kinds, to help individuals with autism of all ages and at all levels of the autism spectrum.  Presentations are available for all audience levels, from beginner to advanced concepts. Each day includes a keynote speaker, breakout sessions, exhibitor fair, and special activities.  Friday also offers a full day of free CEUs for BCBAs.  In addition, everyone in attendance will enjoy a free catered lunch on the rooftop patio as well as Starbucks coffee and delicious refreshments throughout the day! 

Register now: https://www.regonline.com/Register/Checkin.aspx?EventId=1268236

Examples of topics and activities include:

  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Positive Behavior Support (PBS)
  • Strategies for increasing speech, language, and social interaction
  • Augmentative communication (visual supports, iPad apps, etc.)
  • Improving challenging behaviors at home and in school
  • Accessing services (special education law, government programs, insurance)
  • Resources and options for adults with autism (of all ages and levels)
  • Integrating autism awareness and bully-free environments in schools
  • Executive functioning and sensory processing
  • Supports for parents, siblings and family members
  • Current autism research and the latest findings
  • Understanding autism from the perspective of someone on the spectrum
  • Alternative therapies and activities (music therapy, yoga, etc.)
  • Fun activities for conference participants (GFCF cooking class, massages, etc.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Know someone with dyslexia?  This documentary will give you some insight into their struggles, and the amazing accomplishments of some individuals with dyslexia.  You'll be surprised to learn who some of these people are.
The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia

Remember, if your child has dyslexia, he or she may be entitled to accommodations under a "504 Plan," or an IEP for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ("IDEA").  If you don't know if your child has dyslexia, but he or she struggles in school with reading or even math, then ask the school to evaluate your child.  Schools are obligated to evaluate students that the school's teachers or other school/education professionals (school principal, school nurse, etc.) "suspect" that your child may has a disability that might require special education.  The school's requirement is its Child Find obligation.      

Kirsch-Goodwin & Kirsch