KCS attorneys Daniel Heffernan, Joseph Koltun, and Eliza Presson have reached a settlement in a civil rights lawsuit brought on behalf of four preschool students, resolving claims of improper treatment at the Watertown Public School’s Early Steps Preschool Program. The defendants included municipal entities and various school employees.

The lawsuit alleged that a classroom teacher in the program engaged in a pattern of abusive mistreatment toward the students, two of whom had significant special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental delays. The teacher repeatedly engaged in verbal and physical mistreatment of the students in her care, subjecting them to improper physical restraints and punitive and demeaning behaviors. Students were pulled by their ears, stuffed into a cubby, and picked up and dropped to the ground. Students who wore diapers were subjected to verbal mistreatment and shaming, and were at times forced to change their own diapers or remain in soiled diapers.

Reports indicated that the conduct occurred over an extended period and was observed by multiple staff. Reports of abuse and neglect were later investigated and supported by the Department of Children and Families.

All four students experienced lasting emotional and physical effects, including changes in their behavior, increased anxiety, and fear of attending school.

The lawsuit included claims of tort liability and violations of both federal and state law. After months of negotiations and a lengthy mediation, the parties reached a $300,000 settlement to be distributed among the plaintiffs and their families.

KCS remains committed to protecting the rights of students with disabilities and to holding educational institutions accountable, improving outcomes for students, and ensuring school programs where all students can thrive.