CT disputes report on out-of-state special education placements

February 14, 2026 - 21:30

State officials in Connecticut are pushing back against a recent report that criticized the placement of students with disabilities in programs outside the state. The report, issued by the Office of the Child Advocate and Disability Rights Connecticut, highlighted concerns about the distance and oversight of these residential facilities.

However, leaders from the State Department of Education and the Department of Children and Families have disputed the report's conclusions. They argue that the data presented is outdated and fails to reflect current improvements and safeguards. Officials emphasized that out-of-state placements are a last resort, used only when in-state programs cannot meet a student's intensive, specialized needs for safety and therapeutic care.

Christina Ghio, an attorney who leads the Office of the Child Advocate, and Disability Rights CT advocate Tom Cosker defended the research in the report. They maintain that their findings raise valid questions about whether Connecticut is adequately serving its most vulnerable students within its own borders and ensuring consistent, high-quality care. The debate underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing complex student needs with the state's responsibility to provide appropriate and accessible education for all.