Lawsuit alleges sexual misconduct by retired Libertyville high school teacher

A lawsuit alleges that a high school special education teacher in Libertyville engaged in sexual misconduct with a student. 

The lawsuit filed against District 128 alleges the teacher engaged in grooming, sexual assault, and abuse against a 15-year-old student who was diagnosed with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities, dating back to fall 2024.

"This is not about personality or disagreement. It is about governance, legal compliance, and the district's obligation to protect students," said parent Jeanette Higham.

Parents attended a school board meeting on Monday night, saying the administration and board overlooked prior arrests and background checks and allowed him to stay employed at the school. Some parents want administrators to be held accountable as well, calling for some administrators — including the district superintendent, the school's former principal, the school's current principal, and a Board of Eduation member — to be fired as well. 

The district said in a statement: 

Community High School District 128 is aware of the lawsuit involving the District. Because the matter contains claims related to a student and school personnel, the District cannot disclose details under federal and State law confidentiality requirements. The District also refrains from commenting on pending litigation. The District is following all required laws and procedures. The District's priority remains providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. We will share additional information if and when it becomes appropriate to do so.  

Editor's Note: A previous version of this story incorrectly reported that the teacher was still working at the school, and that parents were calling for the teacher to be fired. The teacher retired from District 128 some time ago, and parents attended the meeting to demand accountability from administrators and express their unhappiness with the school and district's response to the allegations. CBS News Chicago regrets the error.