A shocking incident at a Chicago charter school has led to a lawsuit alleging negligence and assault. On December 4, 2024, Shanavia Clark filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against KIPP Chicago Schools, its principal Tessa Catlett, and another parent, Simone Junior. The case stems from an alleged assault on Clark's nine-year-old daughter, A.T., by Junior at KIPP Bloom Primary School.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred on March 12, 2024, when Junior allegedly punched A.T. in the face while she was attending school. Prior to this physical altercation, Junior had reportedly threatened both A.T. and her mother. Despite being aware of these threats, Principal Catlett allegedly failed to take action to protect A.T., which Clark argues constitutes a violation of her daughter's civil rights under 42 U.S.C. §1983. The complaint further accuses Catlett of failing to perform her duties as an employee of KIPP Chicago Schools by not safeguarding students from foreseeable harm.
The lawsuit details multiple counts against the defendants. Against Catlett, it alleges failure to protect under Section 1983 and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Against Junior, it includes charges of assault and battery as well as willful and wanton conduct. The plaintiff claims that both defendants' actions were extreme and outrageous, causing significant emotional distress and physical injuries to A.T.
Clark is seeking compensatory damages for her daughter's injuries along with punitive damages aimed at punishing the defendants for their alleged misconduct. She also requests coverage for legal costs under 42 U.S.C. §1988 and any other relief deemed just by the court. Additionally, Clark seeks indemnification from KIPP Chicago Schools under Illinois law (745 ILCS 10/9-102), arguing that they are responsible for any judgment against their employee Catlett due to her actions within the scope of employment.
Representing Shanavia Clark is attorney David S. Lipschultz from his law offices in Chicago. The case has been filed under Case No. 24-cv-12468 in front of an unnamed judge and magistrate judge in the Northern District of Illinois.