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Combating Improper Seclusion in Schools

Combating Improper Seclusion in Schools

Photo displays a small, padded room, with a padded door.
Entrance to a school seclusion room. Photo displays a small, padded room, with a padded door. 

The Educational Opportunities Section (EOS) of the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice combats improper seclusion of students with disabilities in public schools through vigorous enforcement of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Seclusion is the involuntary confinement of a student alone in any room or area. EOS has investigated and resolved complaints alleging that school districts are using seclusion without justification and as a substitute for appropriate behavior and classroom management. 

If you believe a child with a disability has been improperly secluded, you can file a complaint through the Civil Rights Division Portal.

For more information about EOS’ work to combat improper seclusion of students with disabilities in public schools, read summaries of our recent investigations, including press releases, notice letters, and settlement agreements. To learn more about seclusion in schools, explore the information on this site.

“We cannot stand by and watch schools put children with disabilities in seclusion thousands of times and call it public education.” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

Interior of a seclusion room and exterior locking mechanism (red button).
Interior of a school seclusion room and exterior locking mechanism (red button). Photo displays a very small, padded room with a red button on the exterior.
Updated September 22, 2023