Can Schools in Your State Pin Kids Down? Probably.

By Heather Vogell and Sisi Wei, ProPublica
Published on June 19, 2014

Public schoolchildren across the country were physically restrained or isolated in rooms they couldn’t leave at least 267,000 times in the 2011-2012 school year, despite a near-consensus that such practices are dangerous and have no therapeutic benefit. Many states have little regulation or oversight of such practices. This map shows where your state stands. Data compiled as of January 2014. Related: Violent and Legal: The Shocking Ways School Kids are Being Pinned Down, Isolated Against Their Will

ProPublica awarded each state a score based on how closely they follow six key elements that are outlined in reform bills and U.S. Department of Education non-mandatory guidance. The lowest score is 0, with the least restrictions.  Maryland received a score of 6.
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Here are the questions ProPublica investigative reporters Heather Vogell and Sisi Wei asked, and here is how Maryland ranked:

• Is the use of restraints limited to emergencies? No - if included in an IEP.

• Is the use of seclusions limited to emergencies? No - if included in an IEP.

• Is parental notification of either practice required? Yes.

• Is the use of seclusions prohibited? No.

• Are restraints that restrict breathing banned? Yes.

• Are mechanical restraints prohibited? Yes.