When students with disabilities are subjected to abusive situations at school, trauma can be long-lasting, harming both social and scholastic development. A troubling incident at an Illinois school highlights the vulnerability of students in the absence of proper oversight. Amid this environment, families may feel powerless, but they have options to hold schools accountable and ensure students are afforded federal protections designed to prevent abuse and discrimination. Call the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team at 888-535-3686 now or visit our consultation form.

Over 100 Special Education Students Arrested in School District

In April 2025, a disturbing incident at Garrison School in Illinois involved a substitute teacher, Rhea Drake, dragging a 6-year-old nonverbal autistic student, Xander Reed, down the hallway by his ankle after he refused to go to Physical Education class. A school staff member photographed the act and reported it, prompting the administration to take action. Xander's parents pressed charges, and Drake was charged with misdemeanor battery three weeks later, where she pled not guilty.

Critically, the Garrison School is part of the Four Rivers Special Education District, which has a history of using police intervention and controversial disciplinary practices. A 2022 investigation revealed that staff frequently called police on students, resulting in over 100 arrests of children as young as nine. Detention by law enforcement was often for conduct connected to students' disabilities, including disobedience or outbursts.

Parents' Worries by Lack of Federal Oversight

Despite orders by the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR), oversight—and the safety of students—remain uncertain. The OCR regional office that monitored Garrison and schools in five other states was dissolved by the Trump Administration in March 2025. While there's been no record of further communication with the district since the school year began, police have been called to Garrison over 30 times, with six students arrested for charges including but not limited to property damage and aggravated battery.

Xander's parents said they enrolled him at Garrison because they had no other options. However, reforms failed to quell concerns. His parents claim he has been punished by being placed in the school's "crisis room," a "small space where students are taken when staff feel they misbehave or need time alone." Now, a traumatized Xander no longer wants to attend school, underscoring similar situations of dozens of others.

Seek Special Education Program Help With the Lento Law Firm

Students in special education programs have federally protected rights while enrolled in school. Although OCR is tasked with enforcing safeguards, compliance can be a fleeting goal in some situations, leaving parents concerned about the quality of education and the safety of their children. Fortunately, a student defense attorney can play a crucial role in advocating for both the students and parents involved in incidents similar to those at Garrison School.

The Lento Law Firm prioritizes the health and safety of special education students and will develop a strategic response strategy to safeguard their rights and academic future. Our Student Defense Team will hold schools accountable to OCR directives and work toward keeping your child's educational goals intact. Call the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team now at 888-535-3686 or fill out our confidential consultation form, and we will reach out to you.