UPDATE: Lake County Republican Chair Keith Brin has made explosive allegations against a teacher at Highland Park High School, claiming a pattern of “inappropriate behavior” puts students at risk. During a tense meeting with the Township High School District 113 Board of Education on October 10, 2023, Brin admonished district leaders for allowing the teacher to return to the classroom despite serious allegations.
Brin revealed that a relative, a student at the school, experienced “verbal harassment” and inappropriate touching from the teacher. He stated that the district’s investigation confirmed the teacher had massaged a student’s hand and shown an “inappropriate film” during class, yet the teacher was still reinstated. This shocking revelation raises urgent questions about the safety of students in the district.
A Freedom of Information Act request for details regarding the investigation has not been addressed, leaving parents and students concerned about transparency. A spokesperson for D113 declined to provide comments on personnel matters, while the teacher has not responded to requests for comment.
Brin exclaimed, “Shame on this district for putting kids in danger,” highlighting the emotional weight of the issue. The gravity of his statement was echoed by a student who spoke at the same meeting, alleging they too had faced “verbal harassment.” This student passionately urged the board to take decisive action, asserting that allowing a teacher with such a record back into the classroom sends a dangerous message about student safety.
“Allowing someone with this record of behavior back into a classroom with minors sends a message that student safety is negotiable, that our voices, comfort and boundaries come second to convenience,” the student said, emphasizing the urgent need for reform within the district.
This developing story raises critical questions about the accountability of school districts and the safety of students. Parents and community members are now calling for immediate action from the board and demanding a thorough review of the district’s policies regarding teacher conduct.
As this situation unfolds, the community remains on high alert, awaiting further updates and potential actions from Township High School District 113. The implications of these allegations are profound, and the voices of students and parents will likely shape the district’s response moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
