Sexual Abuse in Schools

Parents should be able to send their children to school without having to worry about their safety, but many sexual abuse cases actually take place within the context of schools, school athletic teams and after school programs. Teachers and other school employees have a responsibility to watch students and ensure their safety. When school employees allow sexual abuse or are the direct cause of sexual abuse, they can face both criminal and civil penalties.

§ 21.12 of the Texas Penal Code both defines and lists the penalties for improper relationships between educators and students. School employees who engage in these behaviors can be charged with a second degree felony for any sexual contact, intercourse or deviate sexual intercourse with a student that is enrolled in either a public or private elementary or secondary school.

Victims can also take action against individuals, schools and entire school districts that allowed sexual abuse of a student or a pattern of sexual abuse among many students. Recently, a scandal surfaced at a private California elementary school. Allegedly, students at this school were sexualized at a very young age due to a severe lack of supervision. Parents are coming forward and alleging that their young children were sexually involved with other students because teachers did not provide adequate supervision during nap times, recess and other school activities.

The effects of sexual abuse can last a lifetime. Victims deserve to not only to have their stories heard. Stern Law Group can fight for justice on behalf of your child if he or she was sexually abused in the context of school. To learn more, please contact a Texas sexual abuse attorney from our firm today and receive a free evaluation of your case.