Chicago Schools Reach $17.5 Million Settlement in Abuse Case

The Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has agreed to a historic settlement of **$17.5 million** with a former student who suffered years of sexual abuse from a now-convicted administrator. This settlement is believed to be the largest of its kind in Illinois school history and was approved by the Chicago Board of Education on **October 25, 2023**.

In an exclusive interview with NBC 5 Investigates, a woman identified as “Jane” expressed relief at the resolution, stating, “I can move on and heal in peace.” Jane, now in her 20s, alleged that **Brian Crowder**, a former dean at **Little Village Lawndale High School**, sexually abused her during her time as a student. Crowder was convicted of aggravated sexual abuse and sexual assault in **July 2023**, receiving a **22-year prison sentence**.

The settlement entails a **$10 million** payout directly from CPS, while an additional **$7.5 million** will be covered by the district’s insurance carriers. Despite the settlement, a CPS spokeswoman indicated that the district “denies wrongdoing.” The decision to settle was made to mitigate the “uncertainty, cost, and emotional toll” associated with a trial. The board approved the settlement without discussion, adjourning immediately afterward.

Jane recounted the harrowing experiences that began with a Snapchat message and escalated into a sexual relationship while she was underage. She reported her abuse to another teacher, but her concerns went unaddressed. Court records reveal that Crowder misrepresented himself as her stepfather to facilitate two abortions while she was still in high school, with a third occurring after her graduation.

The issue of sexual misconduct at Little Village Lawndale High School has garnered significant attention. An investigation revealed that at least **seven educators** from the school have either resigned or been dismissed since **2017** while under investigation for similar allegations. The Office of Inspector General (OIG) substantiated many of these claims, leading to bans on those educators from working within CPS.

Bryce Hensley, Jane’s attorney, emphasized the importance of the settlement, stating, “The message that it sends is that children and their safety have to be the district’s number one priority.”

Tania Haigh, a representative from the advocacy organization **Kids Too**, expressed deep concern for the ongoing issues within Illinois schools, saying, “I am absolutely heartbroken for what this young woman had to endure during her high school years and beyond.” She described the situation as outrageous, highlighting the need for systemic change to protect students.

Jane described her journey towards healing, stating, “I would hug myself so hard and I would say that it was time for me to stick up for me and do the right thing for me and for others.” Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for accountability and reform in educational institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.