Settlement Reached in Case of Alleged Abuse of Three Children by Former CPS Teacher
Families Settle Lawsuit for $2 Million
The families of three children allegedly sexually abused by a former Chicago Public Schools (CPS) teacher have settled their lawsuit against the school board for $2 million, their attorneys announced Thursday.
Allegations and Investigation
The families argued in federal court that CPS failed to properly notify the families of sexual abuse allegations against Andrew Castro, a former physical education teacher at Federico García Lorca Elementary School on the Northwest Side, leading to his dismissal in 2021. While the notice said a teacher had been removed, it did not name Castro.
Castro’s Alleged Abuse
Castro allegedly befriended the children with gifts, compliments, and special treatment. His alleged abuse eventually manifested into sexual abuse and rape, the lawyers said. He still faces criminal charges in Cook County Circuit Court. Castro pleaded not guilty when he was indicted last year, but his defense attorney declined to comment further on the case.
Settlement Critics and Concerns
“Let’s be clear: This settlement is not a victory to be celebrated,” said Patrycja Karlin, a lawyer for the defendant families, at a news conference. “It is simply the beginning of a much broader fight for accountability.”
Larry Disparti, an attorney for the families, added, “Nothing was done until it was too late, and the rape and abuse had already occurred.”
CPS Response and Commitment to Safety
In a statement to the Sun-Times, CPS said safety is a top priority and is working to educate students and staff about sexual abuse and how to report it.
“CPS works proactively to prevent sexual abuse and address and investigate any reports of abuse,” a spokesperson said. “The district believes that any student who is harmed as a result of a legally recognized failure on the part of the district should be compensated in a reasonable manner that will help remedy the student’s injuries.”
Families’ Lawyers’ Goal
“We are not here to attack schools,” said Amanda Martin, another attorney representing the families. “We are here to help.”
Conclusion
The settlement is a step towards justice for the three families and a reminder of the need for greater accountability and action to prevent child abuse in Chicago schools. However, the lawyers representing the families emphasized that this is only the beginning of a much broader fight for change.
FAQs
* What is the alleged abuse that the three children suffered at the hands of Andrew Castro?
The children allegedly suffered sexual abuse and rape at the hands of Castro, a former CPS teacher.
* What is the current status of Andrew Castro’s case?
Castro faces criminal charges in Cook County Circuit Court and has pleaded not guilty. His defense attorney declined to comment further on the case.
* What is the response of CPS to the allegations of sexual abuse?
CPS has acknowledged the seriousness of the issue and is working to educate students and staff on how to recognize and report sexual abuse.
* What do the lawyers representing the families hope to achieve with this settlement?
The lawyers hope to use this settlement as a starting point for a broader fight for accountability and change to prevent child abuse in Chicago schools.
