Who will represent YOUR voice

In November 2012 there will be many changes in our state government. We will be electing a new Governor as well as people in many other positions, both in Congress and here in our state. They want to hear from you as they form their campaign platforms.  You need to hear from them so that you can be informed when you vote! The Arc of Washington State has added information on our web site to help you as you decide who best represents your voice. We are distributing a questionnaire to the candidates asking for their perspective and plan of action, if elected, on issues that are important to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We will post their responses with their name and contact information on our site as we receive their replies. Be sure to check back often! To view information on statewide offices including Governor, Lt. Governor,  Secretary of State, State Treasurer, State Auditor, Attorney General, Commissioner of Public Lands, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Insurance Commissioner as well as open Congressional seats go to: http://arcwa.org/takeaction/washingtonstate/coming_events For information on candidates for the Washington State Legislature (by district) go to: http://arcwa.org/takeaction/washingtonstate/coming_events/washington_state_legislature_candidates If you have questions, please feel free to contact me. Remember, Change is made by those who show up! Diana Stadden Policy and Advocacy Coordinator The Arc of Washington State Toll-free: (888) 754-8798 Diana@arcwa.org

U.S. Department of Education Issues Resource Document that Discourages Restraint and Seclusion

U.S. Department of Education Issues Resource Document that Discourages Restraint and Seclusion Today, the U.S. Department of Education issued a publication that outlines principles for educators, parents and other stakeholders to consider when developing or refining policies and procedures to support positive behavioral interventions and avoid the use of restraint and seclusion. The goal of this resource document is to help ensure that schools are safe and healthy environments where all students can learn, develop and participate in instructional programs that promote high levels of academic achievement. “As education leaders, our first responsibility must be to make sure that schools foster learning in a safe environment for all of our children and teachers,” U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. “I believe this document is an important step toward this goal. I also want to salute leaders in Congress for their vigilance on this issue.” The 15 principles that frame the document ultimately highlight how schoolwide behavioral interventions can significantly reduce or eliminate the use of restraint or seclusion. These guiding principles offer states, districts and other education leaders a framework for developing appropriate policies related to restraint and seclusion to ensure the safety of adults and children. “Ultimately, the standard for educators should be the same standard that parents use for their own children,” Duncan added. “There is a difference between a brief time out in the corner of a classroom to help a child calm down and locking a child in an isolated room for hours. This really comes down to common sense.” The document also provides a synopsis of ongoing efforts by federal agencies to address national concerns about using restraint and seclusion in schools, and includes links to state restraint and seclusion policies and procedures. To access this document, click here http://www.ed.gov/policy/restraintseclusion.