Massachusetts is moving to shut down a residential school for about 75 males with special needs in Great Barrington citing ‘systemic’ abuse.The state Department of Early Education and Care says that despite sanctions imposed last month due to allegations of abuse, monitors have noted several instances of noncompliance at Eagleton School. EEC says it has learned of new violations demonstrating that continued operation poses a risk to the health and safety of children. EEC says residents have disclosed several recent instances of abuse or neglect of residents by staff while uncovering failures to comply with state law regarding reporting allegations of abuse.
EEC is revoking Eagleton’s group care licenses and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has withdrawn its approval of Eagleton’s special education license. School attorney Kathleen McCormick says Eagleton is negotiating with residential and special education providers to take over the operations of Eagleton.
"As always, the priority of Eagleton remains the welfare of our students,” said Eagleton Executive Director Bruce Bona in a statement. “Eagleton is totally committed to working with the state to ensure the safety and welfare of our students."
In February five staffers were charged in connection with allegations of abuse against students following a raid by federal and local authorities.
