U.S. Department of Education Finds DC Public Schools Violated Disability Rights
The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has determined that District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) committed widespread violations of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act by denying students with disabilities their right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). The OCR investigation identified systemic failures across Washington, DC, including excessive delays in student evaluations, insufficient individualized supports, decision-making by untrained staff, improper removal of services, and unsafe or unreliable transportation.
OCR has proposed a resolution requiring DCPS to establish a new Disability Services Division, update district policies, conduct annual staff training, and strengthen transportation systems. If DCPS does not agree to these terms, OCR may pursue federal enforcement action. The findings build on earlier reports documenting high complaint rates and long-standing concerns about DCPS’s administration of special education services.