Two state-run schools for the developmentally disabled face losing more federal money

SEATTLE — Two state-run schools for the developmentally disabled face losing more federal money.

In documents obtained by KIRO 7, an April inspection and investigation into Rainier School found repeat deficiencies relating to student care, staffing for field trips, training for clients, not using disposable gloves properly and not notifying parents or guardians when their student was involved in violent incidents.

Federal investigators also report the facility was not properly prepared for an emergency and didn’t fix issues that came up during eight fire drills over the last year.

Investigators say Joe McDermond was left strapped to his wheelchair and fell off a dock into Alder Lake. Click here to read more.

His foster family is now suing the state. The Department Of Social and Health Services made changes to protocols for off-site outings following the incident. Click here to read more.

The latest deficiencies are included in the recommendation for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services to decertify the school, making it ineligible for federal money. If that happens, DSHS says it will appeal.

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The agency also released a statement saying:

“The health and well-being of our residents at all of our centers is our first and foremost priority. We will continue to provide all necessary services to our clients as we work though the survey results and appeal process.”

Fircrest School, which houses 200 residents of all ages in Shoreline, is currently not receiving federal money for new admissions because of its own deficiencies which led to partial decertification in December. The Rainier School in Buckley houses about 310 residents of all ages.

KIRO 7 will continue to stay on top of this as the state works to fix the issues and keep federal funding.

Cox Media Group