In 2023, Minnesota took an important step to protect its youngest learners by banning the use of seclusion rooms for children in kindergarten through third grade. Now, as some lawmakers consider rolling back that protection, we must stand up for our children—especially those with disabilities.

A recent report from Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, “Children in Confinement: Seclusion in Schools,” documented 80 registered seclusion rooms across our state. These are not colorful calming spaces filled with tools to help children regulate their emotions. According to the report, many are small, bare rooms—about 6 by 5 feet—with cinder block walls and concrete floors. Children are placed there alone, involuntarily, often during moments of distress.

We all agree that classrooms must be safe for students and staff. Educators deserve effective tools to respond to challenging behavior. But locking a young child in a stark, empty room should never be considered a solution. Minnesota has already seen a significant drop in seclusion incidents over the past four years. That progress shows change is possible.

Parents across Minnesota—rural, suburban, and urban—want schools that support children, not isolate them. Disability advocates have raised concerns that seclusion is used disproportionately on children of color and young boys with disabilities. Regardless of where we stand politically, we can agree that every child deserves dignity and compassion at school.

We call on the Minnesota Legislature, Governor Walz, and Commissioner Jett to uphold the current ban on seclusion for our youngest students and move toward ending the use of seclusion rooms for all grades. Instead, we urge investment in evidence-based supports, sensory spaces, trained staff, and proactive behavioral interventions that keep everyone safe without confinement.

Minnesota can lead with both safety and heart. Our children deserve nothing less.