Prospect graduate sues District 214, claiming discrimination

A former Prospect High School student has filed a federal lawsuit accusing employees of the school and Northwest Suburban High School District 214 of racial discrimination, charges the district says are unfounded.

The suit was originally filed in Cook County circuit court in June but was moved to federal court this week. In it, a student identified only as "John Doe" alleges that he was the victim of bullying, unfair punishment and harassment from students and staffers because he is black.

The student graduated from Prospect High School in 2015 but according to the suit "has been struggling with educational and social setbacks, emotional distress and depression, which he sees a therapist to address."

In the 49-page suit John Doe recounts being called the N-word by students on a weekly basis, being called a "monkey" by a fellow student and a "jerk" by a teacher.

The suit says he or his family reported the bullying several times but that it was never resolved to their satisfaction.

District 214 responded in a short statement Friday.

"At Prospect High School and throughout High School District 214, we practice a culture of integrity and respect and take that very seriously," the statement from district spokeswoman Jen Delgado reads.

"These allegations are unfounded, and we are confident our staff provided a safe and supportive learning environment for John Doe, as we do with all of our students."

According to the latest demographic information from the State Board of Education, 1.6 percent of student at Prospect High School are black.

District 214 said it also takes issue with the timing of the suit being filed.

"The family bringing forth this suit has a history of bringing forward lawsuits over the years and waited to file this suit until the day before John Doe's 19th birthday, the day before the statute of limitations would expire," Delgado's statement continues.

"We have reviewed the complaint, and remain confident in the education we deliver to every student who walks through our doors. The district as a whole, and the individuals named in this suit, look forward to clearing their names in court."