Sexual Assault in Schools - What You Should Know

Sexual Abuse at Schools in Massachusetts: If Your Child Has Been Sexually Abused, You Can Find an Attorney to Help at Faneuf Law Group

To trust educational facilities with the care of our children only to have them abused can make one lose faith in humanity. Teachers and staff are charged with preventing harm to our children, not causing it. In Massachusetts, if an employee of a school abuses a student, the school should be held responsible. Sexual abuse can range from unwated touching to rape. We understand that these unthinkable tragedies are hard to talk about. Our staff is compassionate, understanding and willing to listen. If you would like to speak to us, please call 617-939-9894. You can also submit your information to us through this website. You do not have to worry about the expense of legal services, as our fee is structured such that we only receive a portion of anything we are able to obtain for the victim. We also front all expenses.

While the vast majority of school employees are devoted, caring people who help our children learn and grow, schools in communities all across the country are witnessing an increase in disclosures of sexual abuse of students by both male and female teachers, coaches, and other school personnel. In fact, this trend was reported in 2004 by the U.S. Department of Education, whose report documented that “more than 4.5 million students (10%) are subject to sexual misconduct by an employee of a school sometime between Kindergarten and 12th grade.” Teachers or coaches were involved in a third of the cases. The remainder included: substitute teachers, bus drivers, teacher’s aides, security guards, principals, counselors, and other school employees.

Signs of Sexual Abuse in Schools

Most parents do their best to be aware of the well-being of their children as they attend classes. More often than not, children do not share their trauma with others. It is important to look for clues to know if a child struggles with sexual abuse in school.

Signs of sexual abuse in school may include: 

  • Excessive knowledge of sexual topics

  • Changes in eating habits

  • Unexplained bruising

  • Not talking as much as usual

  • Spending more time alone

  • Not wanting to be around certain people

  • Changes in mood, such as being more aggressive

  • Less interested in school and activities

  • Avoiding the removal of clothes when changing or bathing

Remember, children may display only a couple of these signs. Parents should reach out to their children and healthcare providers if they notice any odd behaviors.

Psychological Effects

Sexual misconduct may result in immediate consequences, or it can develop later in life. The consequences of sexual abuse are different from child to child.

Immediate psychological effects may include: 

  • Shock

  • Fear

  • Guilt

  • Denial

  • Confusion

  • Acting Out

Talk To A Sexual Assault Lawyer In Massachusetts

Again, we understand how hard it is to try and process this situation. We are here to help. Our office does not charge families anything out of pocket to retain our services. Our fee is structured such that we receive a portion of anything we are able to obtain for the victim.

You have a few different options to reach out. First, the chat box on your right. You can also reach us directly, just call (617) 939-9894. In addition, you can also use our contact form on the website, click here to do so.