Morning Bell: Ivy Tech Expansion, National Dream University, Seclusion Rooms

Kyle Stokes / StateImpact Indiana

The state legislature appropriated $20 million for building projects at Ivy Tech Community College in Anderson in 2009, but the funds haven't been released because of the recession.

Where should Ivy Tech spend $20 million? – “Muncie is next in line, at the top of the college’s list of statewide capital priorities. The East Central region is expected to ask the Legislature next year for $20 million for a new building in Muncie and $14 million for renovation of its facilities on Cowan Road.” The Muncie Star Press

National Dream University to Serve Undocumented Students – “One of the things that prospective students will find appealing is the pricetag: each course credit will cost a paltry $65. And students will be taught by instructors who are themselves in a unique position to understand the challenges facing young undocumented adults in America.” Education News

Locked Away: StateImpact Ohio Looks At Seclusion Rooms

There’s no law that addresses the use of isolation in public schools in Indiana, but the State Board of Education drafted guidelines in 2009 that urge schools to address them in their disciplinary code. Our colleagues at StateImpact Ohio continue their collaboration with The Columbus Dispatch:

Locked Away: Teachers Have Seclusion Rooms, But Not Training In Their Use – “Not all general-education teachers receive training in working with emotionally disturbed children. With more students with disabilities in traditional schools than there once were, that lack of preparation can make for chaotic classrooms.” StateImpact Ohio

Locked Away: Moving Away From “Mainstreaming” – “The reasons why are complicated, but in at least some cases, it’s because parents have objected to the use of seclusion rooms as a disciplinary tool instead of a way to keep their kids safe.” StateImpact Ohio