It was built in the 1930s as a large state-funded and state-operated residential and habilitative facility for adults with intellectual disabilities.

It independently operates its own power, heat, sewage treatment, water, laundry, fire, ambulance, public safety, building maintenance, transportation and dietary services.

[3] In 1976, John Lennon donated his 1970 Oscar statuette for auction to raise money for the school, which netted $600.

The Department of Intellectual Disabilities was directed to attempt to place residents in group homes and other such settings.

“As a federally appointed 'special master,' Ferleger is responsible for making sure Connecticut complies with a 10-year-old U.S. Department of Justice order to improve conditions at the facility for the intellectually disabled.

As one historical summary of the case puts it, “the court ultimately accepted all of the reports.” Civil Rights Litigation Clearinghouse.

“In a process of evaluation lasting almost a decade, the Special Master, with the assistance of experts commissioned by him and the parties, measured improvements at STS against the standards set forth in the Court Requirements.