In a significant move to protect students’ rights and well-being, Colorado lawmaker Reprentative Regina English has introduced House Bill 25-1178, aimed at banning the use of seclusion in schools across the state. If this crucial legislation were passed, Colorado would join a growing list of states that prohibit this controversial practice.
Key Provisions of HB25-1178
The proposed bill includes several important measures:
✅ Statewide Ban on Seclusion: Schools can no longer place students in isolated rooms as discipline.
✅ Updated Policies: The State Board of Education must update regulations by November 1, 2025 to reflect the ban.
✅ Accountability Measures: Schools must report any attempts at seclusion and detail alternative behavioral strategies.
✅ Emergency Situations Clause: Students may be temporarily removed for safety concerns, but not secluded.
✅ State Oversight: The Colorado Department of Education will investigate complaints related to seclusion.
Why This Bill is Needed
The use of seclusion in schools has long been a contentious issue, with mounting evidence of its harmful effects on students, particularly those with disabilities. Recent incidents, such as the case at McAuliffe International School in Denver, have highlighted the urgent need for reform.
Parents have shared heartbreaking stories of their children experiencing trauma, nightmares, and even PTSD as a result of being secluded. Many were unaware that their children were subjected to this practice, as schools often used euphemistic terms like “relaxation room” or “opportunity room” to describe seclusion spaces.
The is a disproportionate impact from the use of seclusion. According to data from the U.S. Department of Education 80% of seclusion cases involve students with disabilities. Black students are 3x more likely to experience seclusion than white peers (Brookings Institution, 2022).
Call to Action
As advocates for the safety and well-being of all students, we must support this crucial legislation.
Here’s how you can help:
1. Contact Your Representatives: If you’re a Colorado resident, reach out to your state lawmakers and express your support for HB25-1178. Urge them to vote in favor of this important bill.
2. Share Your Experiences: If you or your child have had experiences related to seclusion in Colorado schools, please consider sharing your story with Representative Regina English’s office. Your testimony can make a powerful impact on the legislative process.
3. Spread Awareness: Share information about this bill with your networks, including fellow parents, educators, and community members. The more people understand the importance of this issue, the stronger our collective voice becomes.
4. Stay Informed: Follow the progress of HB25-1178 and be prepared to take further action if needed. The legislative process can be complex, and your continued engagement is crucial.
By working together, we can ensure that Colorado takes this important step to protect all students from the harmful practice of seclusion. Let’s make our schools safer, more inclusive, and truly supportive environments for every child.
