Guidance released by the department reminds schools of their legal duty to hold predatory staff accountable for their actions.
The Department of Education’s (ED) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) announced a nationwide initiative to increase protections for K-12 students from sexual misconduct. The department stated that a pattern of school administration protecting employees accused of sexual harassment or assault against children must end, calling the practice “passing the trash.”
Guidance has been issued to schools, reminding them of their obligation to safeguard students against sexual predators and misconduct under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX). Additionally, 20 directed investigations have been opened against schools whose 2023-2024 Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC) contain information that suggests inappropriate action from school administration in situations of sexual misconduct committed by staff towards students.
“Our schools must protect America’s children. Parents should never have to wonder whether their kids’ school employs and protects sexual predators,” said Education Secretary Linda McMahon. “Schools that receive federal funding have a duty to protect students, report sexual misconduct honestly, and follow the law. Through this initiative, we are holding school districts accountable because every child deserves to learn in a safe environment free from sexual abuse and harassment.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary McMahon as she heads the federal effort to ensure the safety of students in K-12 schools nationwide.
- For U.S. Education officials involved in the investigations into sexual misconduct in school districts.
Sources: Department of Education
