Teachers, principals, administrators, and classified staff are authorized by law to use, within the scope of their employment, such amount of force and restraint as is reasonable and necessary to quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to others, to oneself, to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects, for the purpose of self-defense, or for the protection of persons or property. Whether the use of force or a restraint is "reasonable" is determined by the totality of the circumstances.

The use of force or an administration of a restraint must be in good faith. Force and/or restraints must never be administered by a staff member who is upset with a student or situation, or as a disciplinary measure. Except in emergencies, force and restraints should be used away from other students and in the presence of at least one other staff member. It is the duty of the observing staff member to monitor the safety of the student and the person using force or administering the restraint.

Great care should be taken to ensure that restraints do not prevent a student from talking or breathing and do not result in a student being pinned against the floor or other objects. Restraints should be used for a minimal time and with the minimal force necessary, and only as a last resort when de-escalation and other techniques fail to adequately protect the safety of the student and others. Mechanical restraints such as rope, tape, etc. are never acceptable. When available, staff members trained and certified in physical restraints should be used.

Following the use of force or of a restraint, the staff member who administered the restraint should verbally notify an administrator as soon as possible. A written report should be provided to the administrator responsible for maintaining an on-going record of all physical restraints conducted by the school within a 24-hour period. The administrator should verbally inform the student's parents or guardians of the restraint as soon as possible. Written reports to the parents including a description of the event and staff involved should be postmarked no later than three (3) working days following an incident.

If the use of restraints is anticipated to be or in fact becomes a regular part of the educational routine for a special education student, the IEP team shall be convened to discuss the use of restraints and what role restraints have in the special education of the student.

R.C. 3319.41
OAG 02-019

Adopted 1/11/10