Court Monitoring Confirms Providence Schools Comply with Preschool Special Education Settlement
A court-appointed monitor reported that the Providence Public School District and the Rhode Island Department of Education fulfilled their commitments under a 2023 settlement addressing delays in special education services for preschool students. This compliance allows a federal class action lawsuit to be closed.
Settlement Compliance Verified
The independent monitor's report confirmed substantial compliance by the Providence Public School Department with the terms of the August 2023 settlement agreement.
"The Providence Public School District (PPSD) can now move past a federal class action lawsuit over the delivery of special education services for hundreds of preschoolers after being deemed compliant with the terms of a settlement reached two years ago."
Background of the Lawsuit
The 2023 settlement followed a lawsuit filed in July 2023 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island. The case was brought by Parents Leading for Educational Equity (PLEE) and three families, who alleged that Providence schools and the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) failed to provide necessary accommodations for children ages 3 to 5 with learning disabilities.
On Wednesday morning, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Rhode Island and the Rhode Island Center for Justice announced the monitor's finding that school officials met all conditions outlined in the settlement.
Impact
The resolution of this lawsuit marks a significant step forward in ensuring timely and adequate special education services for young children with disabilities in Providence.
"An independent monitor has determined that school officials met all the conditions spelled out in an August 2023 settlement."
Author’s summary: Providence schools and state education authorities have fulfilled their obligations under a 2023 settlement, allowing a federal class action on preschool special education delays to be closed.
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