SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WMBD) – The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has ordered three day care facilities to transfer students for allegedly operating without state approval.
The three facilities are owned by Menta and serve as therapeutic day schools for students with social-emotional disorders, according to an ISBE news release.
The Menta facility had applied for ISBE approval in spring 2023. However, none of the facilities received approval before accepting and enrolling students.
After receiving the complaint, ISBE immediately began an investigation, which was followed by an unannounced visit to the facility. Investigators found “questionable” restraint and time-out practices at the Springfield and Centralia locations.
Additionally, the staff at the Springfield and LaSalle facilities did not match the information submitted on the application. The facility also did not have the required contract with the student’s school district or the required fees set by the Illinois Purchasing Medical Review Board.
“We are committed to protecting the safety, welfare, and educational rights of all students affected by this company’s misconduct,” said State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders.
He continued, “It is outrageous and unprecedented for Menta Group to jeopardize the safety and well-being of students by misrepresenting its approval status to school districts and families and operating an unlicensed facility. ISBE is committed to assisting school districts and families in finding alternative employment for our students.”
Due to multiple violations and safety concerns, the facility’s application was officially denied and it was notified to cease operations as of October 20th.
A total of 125 students from 41 school districts were enrolled in unapproved facilities. ISBE plans to meet with affected school districts to identify new educational institutions for affected students.