The Wisconsin Montessori Society, operating as Milwaukee Montessori School (MMS), has reached a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice over allegations of discrimination against children with disabilities. Announced by Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, the settlement involves injunctive relief and a payment of $290,000.
The case revolves around accusations that MMS failed to provide equal educational opportunities to children with disabilities, violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This federal law prohibits discrimination based on disability in private schools and other educational institutions.
Since 2018, MMS allegedly engaged in discriminatory practices such as expelling or refusing admission to disabled children and failing to make reasonable modifications for them. The experiences of ten children were highlighted in the Settlement Agreement as evidence of these practices.
"Children with disabilities have the right to access the educational opportunities offered by private schools, including Montessori schools," stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Frohling. He emphasized that this settlement serves as a reminder of ADA obligations extending to private schools.
Under the agreement, MMS will pay $240,000 in damages to affected individuals and a $50,000 civil penalty to the United States. Additionally, MMS is required to undergo monitoring and reporting as part of injunctive relief measures and has already taken steps to address the issues raised by the government.
The ADA empowers the Department of Justice to investigate complaints and conduct periodic reviews. It also authorizes legal action in federal court seeking injunctive relief, monetary damages, and civil penalties.
Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa Yun and Nia Schmaltz represented the government in this matter. It is important to note that while MMS has agreed to settle, it does not admit liability for any allegations made against it.
For further information regarding this case or related inquiries, contact Public Information Officer Kenneth Gales at Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov or call 414-297-1700.