Maryland Cracker Barrel Under Fire for Refusing Service to Special Needs Students
Cracker Barrel has issued an apology after a Maryland location refused to serve a group of local students with special needs. The incident occurred when the group, consisting of 11 students and 7 faculty members, was unable to be seated due to staffing and capacity issues at the Waldorf location. Cracker Barrel stated that the refusal was not related to the students’ disabilities but was due to an inability to accommodate the large party at that time. They acknowledged the situation was “unfortunate” and that poor communication and operational failures contributed to misunderstandings.
Charles County Public Schools Superintendent Maria Navarro responded to the incident in an open letter on December 5. The students, part of a community-based instruction (CBI) program designed to teach life skills in real-world settings, had previously arranged with the restaurant to dine there. However, upon arrival, they were told there was no space, even though they had been informed in advance that no reservation was necessary. The group was offered takeout instead, and although they suggested splitting up to sit at separate tables, the restaurant still refused to accommodate them.
Navarro emphasized that this treatment was unacceptable and expressed encouragement that the district manager had stated Cracker Barrel would work with the school district to improve their practices. Meanwhile, other local businesses have stepped up, offering to host future visits for the students.
The incident has sparked anger among parents, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their frustrations. Dustin Reed, a local father of a nonverbal student on the field trip, has organized a protest at the Waldorf location for December 15. Reed expressed disappointment, saying the group simply wanted to enjoy their meal and learn from the experience without being marginalized.
