‘It’s educational neglect’: VDOE investigates Chesterfield Schools’ transportation for students with disabilities

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has launched an investigation into Chesterfield County Public Schools (CCPS) after allegations that the district's school buses are not properly equipped to accommodate students with disabilities.

"It's educational neglect," said Wendy Little, a Chesterfield Schools parent who filed the complaint with VDOE.

The complaint focuses on claims that buses carrying students with special education needs or disabilities do not have IEPs or 504s, crucial documents that give drivers guidance on how to address students' individual needs.

IEPs and 504 plans are designed to ensure that students with disabilities receive the correct support, whether it be in the classroom or on the bus. Failure to provide this documentation could lead to potentially dangerous situations, especially if an emergency arises and bus drivers are unaware of a student's medical history or specific needs.

"He’s really suffering and he's been forced into solitude for two and a half years and has no access to peers, no access to friends, no schedule, certainly no education," Little said, adding that part of that reason is for issues with his IEP.

"That can truly be deadly if the person providing services to them, including transportation, do not have the tools with them for the child," Little said.

Not carrying a students IEP could violate the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, meaning Chesterfield County Public Schools could be violating multiple state and federal laws if the complaint were found true.

In response to this complaint, CCPS sent 8News an emailed statement, which said the following:

Chesterfield Schools is aware of the information shared by a constituent with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).  The school division will work closely with VDOE for an appropriate resolution. Shawn Smith, Spokesman, Chesterfield Schools

The Virginia Department of Education has given CCPS until Feb. 20 to submit more information to their Office of Dispute Resolution and Administrative Services. VDOE said it'll release the findings of the investigation by March 14.