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September 10, 2002
U.S. District Judge David Ezra today found the State in substantial
compliance with the Felix Consent Decree as of June 30, 2002. In a
Felix Compliance Hearing at 8:30 a.m. this morning, Judge Ezra told
state officials they have reason to congratulate themselves as the
state has made substantial progress.
Health Director Bruce Anderson said, "I am very proud of what my
staff has accomplished over the past four years. The Department of
Health is committed to maintaining and continuing to improve mental
health services to children so that they may benefit from their
education. I believe we are creating one of the best—if not the
best—mental health support systems in the United States."
Judge Ezra praised the state in its
efforts saying that there has been a change that was required and is of
breath-taking proportion.The Judge recognized the positive
changes in attitude and performance in the field and was complimentary
of the Departments and Departmental leadership for the substantial
progress made. He specifically thanked the teachers who now have
the tools and framework to meet the needs of children as required by
federal law.
The Judge also ordered the State to complete a plan to sustain
efforts and indicators to demonstrate there is no backsliding over the
next 18 months. During the next 90 days, the Departments of Education
and Health a will be working with the plaintiffs to submit a
sustainability plans to the court. Judge Ezra indicated Dr. Ivor Groves
would remain as a consultant to the Federal Court. He asked the
Special Master to continue working with the State and plaintiffs to
identify a monitor for the sustainability period.
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