Story perspectives

Three Former Students Sue Oconto Falls Schools for Abuse

3/13/2026

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Students Sue School

Three former students filed a federal lawsuit against the Oconto Falls Public School District alleging staff sexual abuse over 15 years.
The lawsuit names three teachers and mentions five others, including Brynn Larsen, a former teacher who was convicted of sexual assault, and Gayle Gander, who faces multiple felony charges.
Plaintiffs Amanda Watzka, Brooke LaCount, and Grace Williams allege they were victims of this misconduct.
They seek monetary damages and policy changes to prevent future abuse.
The district asserts it acted promptly upon learning of misconduct and is confident in its response.

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A.B. Settles Bullying Suit

The Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District will pay nearly $1 million to settle a lawsuit involving a female student, A.B., who suffered bullying and physical assaults.
The lawsuit claimed staff failed to supervise and address bullying during the 2021-22 school year, and A.B.'s attorney emphasized the settlement's significance.
A.B. experienced head trauma and emotional distress, and she is now 17 and intends to become a teacher.

History

Historical Context

In 2003, the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in "Davis v. Monroe County Board of Education" established schools' liability for student harassment, prompting scrutiny of districts like Oconto Falls. Allegations of bullying and staff misconduct emerged, as seen in lawsuits filed by Amanda Watzka and others, highlighting the urgent need for policy reforms to protect students from abuse and ensure adequate supervision.

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Students Sue School

Three former students filed a federal lawsuit against the Oconto Falls Public School District alleging staff sexual abuse over 15 years.
The lawsuit names three teachers and mentions five others, including Brynn Larsen, a former teacher who was convicted of sexual assault, and Gayle Gander, who faces multiple felony charges.
Plaintiffs Amanda Watzka, Brooke LaCount, and Grace Williams allege they were victims of this misconduct.
They seek monetary damages and policy changes to prevent future abuse.
The district asserts it acted promptly upon learning of misconduct and is confident in its response.

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