Landmark $17.5 Million Settlement Reached in Chicago Public Schools Sex Abuse Case
Chicago,IL – December 4,2025 – A former Chicago Public Schools (CPS) student,identified as “Jane” to protect her privacy,has reached a historic $17.5 million settlement with the district following years of sexual abuse by a former administrator. This settlement, believed to be the largest of its kind in Illinois school history, marks a significant step toward accountability and healing for the survivor. It also raises critical questions about systemic failures within the school system.
A Long Road to Justice
Jane, now in her 20s, bravely came forward last year, alleging sexual abuse by Brian Crowder, a former dean at Little Village Lawndale High School. Her story, shared in an exclusive interview with NBC 5 Investigates, details a harrowing experience that began with seemingly innocuous communication and escalated into a damaging relationship while she was underage.
“I can move on and heal in peace,” Jane stated. “No amount of money can take my pain away, but I do feel like I can heal in peace now and finally turn the page.”
Crowder was convicted this summer on charges of aggravated sexual abuse and sexual assault, and sentenced to 22 years in prison. This conviction, coupled with the settlement, represents a measure of justice for Jane and sends a powerful message to potential abusers.
The Details of the Settlement
The Chicago Board of Education approved the $17.5 million settlement on Wednesday, with no public discussion following the vote.The funds will be allocated as follows:
* $10 million will be paid directly to Jane by the school board.
* $7.5 million will be covered by CPS’s insurance carriers.
While CPS maintains it “denies wrongdoing,” the district opted for a settlement to avoid the prolonged uncertainty, ample costs, and emotional distress of a trial.
A Pattern of Misconduct at Little Village Lawndale
This case isn’t isolated. An NBC 5 examination revealed a disturbing pattern of misconduct at Little Village Lawndale High School.Since 2017, at least seven educators have either resigned or been terminated while under investigation for sexual misconduct.
The district’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) substantiated many of these allegations, resulting in bans for the teachers from future employment within CPS. This raises serious concerns about a perhaps toxic surroundings and inadequate oversight.
What Jane Wishes She Could Tell Her Younger Self
Reflecting on her journey, Jane shared poignant advice for her younger self: “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 and not for the wrong person or the wrong reasons. You know, I’m very proud. It’s been a long journey.”
Her story underscores the importance of self-advocacy and seeking help when experiencing abuse.
The Broader Implications & Calls for Change
This settlement is more than just a financial resolution; it’s a call to action. Advocates are demanding systemic changes to protect students and prevent future abuse.
* Prioritizing Student Safety: Attorney Bryce Hensley emphasized,”The message that it sends is that children and their safety have to be the district’s number one priority.”
* Openness and accountability: Tania Haigh of Kids Too advocates for public access to information regarding educators investigated for misconduct.”First of all,I am absolutely heartbroken…and along with that,I’m absolutely outraged that this pervasive behavior continues in our illinois schools.”
* Supporting Survivors: resources and support systems are crucial for survivors of sexual abuse. Organizations like Kids Too provide vital assistance and advocacy.
A Disturbing Timeline of Events
The abuse Jane endured was complex and manipulative. Court records reveal:
* The abuse began with Snapchat messages while Jane was a student in the mid-2010s.
* Crowder allegedly posed as her stepfather on two occasions to facilitate abortions. A third abortion occurred after she graduated.
* Jane’s initial attempts to report the abuse to another teacher were reportedly ignored.
Where to Seek Help
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual abuse, please reach out for help. Here are some resources:
* **RAINN (Rape
