40% Of Incidents Of Physical Restraint Or Seclusion In Connecticut Schools Involved Students With Autism

During the 2012-2013 Connecticut school year, 40% of incidents of physical restraint or seclusion involved children diagnosed with autism. There were 33,743 incidents of physical restraint or seclusion involving 2,455 students reported by public schools and private special education programs. About half of the incidents involved children fifth grade and below. About 71% of the incidents were in response to emergency risk of harm; the rest were done in accordance with the child’s individualized education plan (IEP).

The findings were reported in the Connecticut State Board of Education’s “Annual Report On Use Of Restraint &amp . . .