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Kansas School District Sued for Ignoring Sexual Harassment Claims

3/25/2026

Center

Lawsuit Against Schools

A federal lawsuit claims Lawrence Public Schools in Kansas ignored sexual harassment complaints about gym teacher Patrik Naughton.
The suit asserts the district did not investigate reports from a student, A.K., alleging inappropriate touching.
The student’s father alleges retaliation after raising concerns, including a criminal trespass warning.
The lawsuit seeks more than $75,000, and emotional distress claims as the U.S. Department of Education investigates the district's handling of the complaints.

Right

Pruitt Sues Schools

Gary Shane Pruitt, a Michigan father, filed a lawsuit against the Grosse Pointe Public School System alleging his rights were violated after a no-trespass ban.
He posted a video showing rainbow and transgender flags at Parcells Middle School, and says the ban followed his concerns.
The suit seeks to expunge the order and remove defamatory statements about him.
The district says it prioritizes safety and enforces school access policies.

History

Historical Context

Title IX, enacted on June 23, 1972, prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs, building on the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This landmark law empowered students to report sexual harassment, leading to significant legal cases against institutions like Yale and the University of Colorado. Current lawsuits highlight ongoing challenges in enforcing these protections and addressing retaliation, potentially reshaping educational policies nationwide.

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Lawsuit Against Schools

A federal lawsuit claims Lawrence Public Schools in Kansas ignored sexual harassment complaints about gym teacher Patrik Naughton.
The suit asserts the district did not investigate reports from a student, A.K., alleging inappropriate touching.
The student’s father alleges retaliation after raising concerns, including a criminal trespass warning.
The lawsuit seeks more than $75,000, and emotional distress claims as the U.S. Department of Education investigates the district's handling of the complaints.

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