CHICAGO — A former Chicago Public Schools student who was sexually assaulted and abused by a security guard is now suing the Board of Education.

The student’s lawyers filed the civil suit on Thursday. It says the student’s former school, Dunbar Career Academy, and the school system failed to protect him from being sexually assaulted in 2021 by then-29-year-old Tywain Carter.

In 2023, Carter pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting the student, who was 15 at the time. Carter also pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting another student.

The lawsuit names six Dunbar staff members who allegedly knew about the guard’s actions and failed to report it.

CPS issued a statement to WGN News that said “The safety and well-being of our staff and students are top priorities and fundamental to our school communities. Chicago Public Schools (CPS) actively works to prevent sexual abuse and thoroughly addresses all reports of abuse. District leaders and staff understand the traumatic impact of sexual abuse and continually strive to educate leaders, teachers, and students about the topic and the reporting process. The district does not comment on pending litigation.”

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The now 18-year-old victim, who is named “John Doe” in the lawsuit, and his parents offered a brief statement when the lawsuit was filed. In them, they said the student is dealing with trauma from the situation.

According to lawyers, the family hopes this trial will send a message to CPS about the need to improve safety.

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