Waldorf, Md. – Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) Superintendent Maria V. Navarro released a statement addressing an incident that reportedly occurred on Dec. 3, where a group of CCPS students and staff was allegedly refused service at a local Cracker Barrel restaurant.
The group, consisting of 11 students and seven staff members, was participating in a Community-Based Instruction (CBI) activity designed to provide students with opportunities to apply classroom-learned skills in real-world settings. The incident has raised concerns about disability awareness and inclusivity within the local business community.
Prior to the visit, CCPS staff contacted the Cracker Barrel location in Waldorf to inform them about the planned visit, including the number of attendees and the educational purpose. CCPS staff reported being told by restaurant personnel that reservations were unnecessary. However, upon arrival, the group was refused service and advised not to include the establishment in future CBI activities.
Although the group was able to place a carry-out order, the incident prompted CCPS leadership to reach out to Cracker Barrel’s district manager to seek clarity and express their concerns.
“We are disheartened to learn about the alleged treatment our students and staff received during an activity designed to educate students through real-world experiences,” Navarro stated. “No one should experience such treatment.”
CCPS has offered to collaborate with Cracker Barrel to provide disability awareness training for its employees. The district manager has reportedly indicated a willingness to speak with the parents of the affected students and explore options for improvement. CCPS has also proposed that Cracker Barrel consider serving as a work-based learning site for its students in the future.
In response to the incident, other local businesses have expressed interest in becoming CBI partners, extending open invitations to CCPS students for future visits. “We are grateful for the swift actions of our staff in addressing the situation, supporting our students, and keeping families informed,” Navarro said.
CCPS leadership remains optimistic that Cracker Barrel will work to ensure such incidents do not occur in the future, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all community members.
