The United States Attorney s Office for the Northern District of Georgia announced a settlement agreement with Smarter Kids Child Care in Smyrna, Georgia, underscoring the importance of inclusivity in childcare services. The settlement arises from violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) after the daycare denied a child with autism the opportunity to participate in its program. U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan emphasized the necessity for accessible childcare, stating, “Children with disabilities deserve equal opportunities to participate in daycare programs.” This agreement promises a more equitable future for children requiring special accommodations in such essential services, as perUnited States Attorney’s Office.
Accused of discrimination, Smarter Kids must now implement a non-discrimination policy to better comply with ADA standards. In the process of denying a child based on their disability, the childcare provider had inadvertently highlighted the persistent barriers that families with special needs children often confront. In addition to policy changes, Smarter Kids will conduct mandatory training for all employees involved in enrollment and accommodation decisions. The settlement further includes financial recompense, with Smarter Kids paying $7,000 to the complainant and a $1,000 civil penalty to the United States.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rahul Garabadu and Senior Civil Investigator Tamara Jones have taken the lead on this case. Their efforts mark a continuation of a broader push within the Department of Justice to ensure that inclusive policies are not just recommended but enforced. With the adoption of a non-discrimination policy, Smarter Kids Child Care takes a step toward remedying past injustices and preventing similar issues in the future.
The agreement, according to the statement from theUnited States Attorney’s Office, requires that Smarter Kids must also provide clarity and accessibility to information regarding accommodations. As a part of the agreement mandating much-needed training for Smarter Kids the hope is that no child will be turned away again, for failing to fit a standard not built for them. Interested parties can find more information from the United States Attorney’s Public Affairs Office, or visit their website to learn more about ADA compliance and the measures being taken to enforce it.
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