Two families will receive settlements from Chicago Public Schools because the school failed to protect two disabled boys. Not only did Chicago Public Schools fail to protect the two boys after finding out that they were raped, but CPS fought back against the parents of the boys! CBS reported, “Both sons are Chicago Public Schools students with disabilities, and the families sued the district – only for CPS to fight back”.

The boys were raped in a bathroom by another student at William J. Bogan Computer Technical High School. The parents filed lawsuits in 2018 after the two victims reported to their parents that they had been “hurt”. Carolyn Daley, the lawyer for both the students told CBS that officials never told the teachers or aides that the offending student was accused of sexual assault. “He ended up sexually assaulting another cognitively disabled child in the bathroom at Bogan High School eight months later,” Daley said.

“CPS is settling with the families for more than $1.5 million – of which $725,000 will go to the first victim’s family, while $850,000 will go to the student who was then assaulted eight months later. While nothing can change what their children have experienced due to the failures of Chicago Public Schools, this settlement will provide some justice and healing for these victims,” Daley said.

Mary Fergus from Chicago’s Public Schools released a statement:

“Chicago Public Schools (CPS) firmly believes that students who are impacted as a result of a legally-recognized failure on the District’s part should be compensated in a reasonable manner that will remedy injuries to the student. There is a tentative settlement agreement in place that resolves the matter in a way that is fair to the student and to the taxpayers who fund the District.”

Minding Hearts is building advocacy and peer support groups in each state.  The groups are created to raise awareness, educate, and advocate for those that might not otherwise be heard. We are here for encouragement, education, and support. We cannot give legal advice, but we can try and direct you in the right direction with your case. Links to legal services are listed with their states. Please share and let’s grow our groups. We are here to support families and develop resources that maintain family integrity. We look forward to your support. If you would rather become active by donating, then visit the donation page.