Protecting Student Safety

Seclusion, Restraint & Corporal Punishment (Chapter 103)

• Iowa Administrative Code 281-103 Corporal Punishment, Physical Restraint, Seclusion, and Other Physical Contact with Students
• Top 10 Points About Chapter 103 (7-7-21) - Highlights ten changes to Chapter 103 and includes guidance, key points, and a list of definitions.
• Chapter 103 Training 2021 - A statewide training module called Overview of State Requirements Regarding Seclusion and Restraint: Chapter 103 (2021 Revision) is available through the AEA Learning System. Use the search terms "chapter 103" to find the module in the catalog. The online module provides instruction and checks for understanding with a record of participation housed within the AEA Learning System. The content provides an initial working knowledge of the December 2020 rules on seclusion and restraint. Given the differences in legislative changes, completing the previous training on the topic does not give certification for the 2021 version of the training; the training must be retaken.
• In-School Suspension and Chapter 103 - Sets forth the Department's conclusion that typical in-school suspension environments do not meet Chapter 103's definition of physical confinement and detention.
• Using Timeout in A Effective and Ethical Manner (2-27-08) - A practical, hands-on guide for educators seeking research-based methods to improve student behavior. The primary audience is educators and parents who would like guidance on preplanning, appropriate interventions, and follow-up to the use of timeout in Iowa classrooms.

Investigating Allegations of Abuse by School Employees (Chapter 102)

Iowa Code section 280.17 and Iowa Administrative Code chapter 281-102 requires public school districts and accredited nonpublic schools to investigate allegations that employees and agents (including volunteers) engaged in physical or sexual abuse of students. 

Chapter 102 Manual: Sample policy on identifying and reporting child abuse - Explains the investigation process, including roles of the designated initial investigators (Level 1 Investigators).