The U.S. Department of Justice found the district routinely violated its own policies and Missouri law when it relied on seclusion and restraint as a regular practice, rather than a final resort.

District leaders cite resource availability, parental involvement and school environment as factors in the placement of students.

Just 20 states earned a “meets requirements” designation from the Education Department this year for serving students with disabilities ages 3 to 21 under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.