Massachusetts DESE Fails Investigations, LGBTQ, Special Education Oversight

A recent audit led by Massachusetts State Auditor Diana DiZoglio reveals significant shortcomings by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in investigating reports of child abuse and neglect involving licensed educators, potentially leaving at-risk students exposed to harm. The audit finds DESE failed to enforce agreements with the Department of Children and Families, including lapses in receiving timely abuse reports during the pandemic, and lacked reliable systems to track and follow up on such cases. Additionally, DESE did not resolve special education complaints within the federally mandated 60-day period, causing delays that negatively affect students' access to necessary services and eroding family trust. The department also violated a memorandum of understanding with the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth by not issuing required communications to school leaders aimed at fostering safe environments for LGBTQ students. Furthermore, DESE showed inadequate oversight of special education settlement agreements and charter school financial disclosures. In response, DESE acknowledges these findings and has begun addressing the issues to ensure safer and more supportive educational settings for all students.