Cracker Barrel has apologized after its Waldorf, Maryland restaurant refused to serve a group of special needs students last week.
The Lebanon, Tennessee-based restaurant chain said its inability to accommodate the party was not related to the students' abilities, but that the situation was “unfortunate” nonetheless.
“Our mistakes last week were unfortunate but unrelated to students' abilities,” Cracker Barrel said in a statement to CBS MoneyWatch on Monday. “They were due to our inability to accommodate a party of 18 people that came when we were experiencing unexpected staffing problems and we partially closed our second dining room.”
The chain acknowledged that its response led to misconceptions on the part of its guests and the public. “Our failure to follow certain operational protocols and poor communication on our part led to misunderstandings and misperceptions,” it said.
one in public letter Posted Thursday, Charles County Public Schools Superintendent Maria Navarro alleged that a group of 11 students and seven teachers visited Cracker Barrel in Waldorf as part of an organized outing and were “refused to serve given.” The visit was part of programming aimed at helping students with special needs practice the skills they learn in the classroom in real-life settings within the community, including local restaurants and retail establishments.
Navarro argues that the school district informed the restaurant of the planned trip and was told that reservations were not required. However, upon arrival, the group was denied service. The letter said they were able to order food on the go.
Navarro said, “The alleged treatment of CCPS students and staff at Cracker Barrel is something no one should have to experience. However, it is encouraging to know that the district manager said the business looks forward to working with CCPS to do better.” Will be ready.” ,
He said the school district has already received offers from other local establishments to host its students.