Cracker Barrel Faces Backlash for Service Refusal

A Cracker Barrel restaurant in Waldorf, Maryland, faced backlash after reportedly refusing service to a group of 11 special education students and seven staff members from Charles County Public Schools during a community-based instruction outing. Despite being informed they did not need a reservation, the group was denied service upon arrival due to 'unexpected staffing issues' and the partial closure of a dining room. Cracker Barrel apologized, stating the incident was unrelated to the students' disabilities and was a result of operational missteps. The school's superintendent, Maria Navarro, expressed disappointment over the treatment and noted that other local businesses have offered to host similar outings. Parents and community members have expressed outrage, leading to a planned protest against the restaurant. Cracker Barrel has indicated a willingness to work with the school district to avoid future incidents.