CPS updates policy on timeouts, physical restraints

Board acts after Tribune, ProPublica investigation

The Chicago Board of Education has updated its policy on physical restraints and timeouts to comply with recent emergency action by the Illinois State Board of Education following a Chicago Tribune and ProPublica Illinois investigation into the misuse of seclusion and isolation in public schools statewide.

The board voted unanimously Wednesday to update the policy, which states that timeout and physical restraints cannot be used as punishment and may only be used for therapeutic purposes or as a way of keeping a safe learning environment.

CPS’s existing policy already banned isolated timeouts. And restraints were already allowed only if authorized in a student’s individualized education plan and if they are used by trained staff in instances when students pose threat to themselves or others.

The new policy is considered temporary but could become permanent in 90 days if adopted following a public comment period.

Any adult who supervises students during a timeout or applies physical restraint is to be trained in de-escalation, restorative and behavior management practices, according to the policy, which now further defines timeout and physical restraint and includes compliance guidelines.

Since Nov. 20, when ISBE initiated its emergency action, CPS staff members have been required to document any uses of timeout or restraint and report that to the district and to ISBE.

The policy also stipulates that a review will be initiated if a student is subjected to three instances of nontherapeutic seclusion or physical restraint.

Board President Miguel del Valle said interim policies were adopted Wednesday because the issues required immediate action, but that the items will be posted for public comment online and people can weigh in on the final policy. The new board’s process for community input on polices has been working as members hoped, he said.

“We already see that as result of public comment, changes are made,” del Valle said.

Proposed policy or rule changes open to public comment are posted on the board’s website so that community members have at least 30 days to review proposals and submit feedback. Staff members review comments before posting publicly on the website.