About the Southbury Training School
The Department of Developmental Services' (DDS) Southbury Training School is located in Southbury, Connecticut. Built in the late 1930’s as home for individuals with intellectual disability, it is the only large residential facility in the state.
On November 19, 2010, United States District Court Judge Ellen Bree Burns signed an Order approving the Settlement Agreement in the 1994 class action Messier v. Southbury Training School (STS). The agreement, negotiated by the parties, which includes The Arc of Connecticut as a plaintiff and the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) as a defendant, was filed with the U.S. District Court on July 12, 2010.
As a result of the Order approving the Messier Settlement Agreement, DDS affirms the commitment that professional judgment will be rendered by each interdisciplinary team at STS for each class member, and will include recommendations for the “most integrated setting” appropriate to the individual’s needs. For purposes of the Agreement, the “most integrated setting” is defined as “a setting that enables individuals with disabilities to interact with non-disabled persons to the fullest extent possible.” 28C.F.R. pt. 35 app. A at page 571 (2009); Olmstead, 527 U.S. at 592.
Since the Order approving the Messier Settlement Agreement, 26 residents have transitioned to the community and an additional 24 residents or guardians have consented for transition into the community. As of April 2023, 534 individuals reside at STS and attend day programs on and off the campus.
STS employs a full-time and part-time and consulting staff. The staff provides supports and services in a broad array of areas including: medical, vocational, residential, and therapeutic and facility support services.