The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has initiated an investigation into the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) regarding potential failures to meet the needs of students with disabilities or special needs. A letter was sent to Chancellor Lewis Ferebee outlining the investigation's scope.
"The Department of Education has a solemn responsibility to protect all students from discrimination, especially our most vulnerable," stated U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. "We will ensure schools are fulfilling their commitment to provide all students with equal access to educational opportunities and not placing unnecessary burdens on families to fight for special education services for their children to which they are entitled under law."
This investigation follows findings from December 2024 by the District of Columbia Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights. The committee reported that DCPS had received more complaints per 10,000 students in special education than any other state or territory in the U.S. It noted that the dispute resolution system placed undue burdens on students and families seeking access to services guaranteed by law, citing a high rate of due process complaints as a cause for concern.
The report also highlighted issues with transportation for special education students within DCPS, including delays, unreliable schedules, and inadequate oversight.
The OCR will assess whether DCPS is discriminating against individuals with disabilities or special needs in programs receiving federal financial aid under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
