An 11-year-old girl was taken to Lurie Children’s Hospital after three classmates allegedly sexually assaulted her just after dismissal near a Near South Side elementary school. Families and school staff were left shaken, and authorities say an investigation is underway.
According to the Chicago Sun‑Times, the attack happened between about 3:30 p.m. and 3:50 p.m. on Monday on the 2200 block of South Federal Street, when three boys who are classmates approached the girl and then fled. Paramedics were called to the National Teachers Academy campus at 55 W. Cermak Rd., and the child was transported to Lurie Children’s Hospital, the paper reported.
School response and supports
In a letter to families, National Teachers Academy principal Teneka Brooks wrote, “This reported improper engagement did not involve any adults,” as reported by the Chicago Sun‑Times. The school told parents it had notified Chicago police, the CPS Office of Safety and Security, and the Office of Student Protections and Title IX. That office coordinates the district’s response to reports of abuse, harassment, and discrimination and offers support to affected students and families, according to Chicago Public Schools.
Police procedure and next steps
Chicago police detectives are handling the probe. Department directives outline definitions of sexual conduct and the protocols investigators follow when children are involved, including how evidence is collected while trying to minimize additional trauma to victims, per the Chicago Police Department.
What parents should do and where to get help
Parents with questions about their child’s safety are encouraged to contact the school and the CPS Office of Student Protections and Title IX for guidance on supports and reporting options, including counseling and the district’s reporting forms, as outlined by Chicago Public Schools. Anyone who suspects a child has been harmed may call the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services Child Abuse Hotline at 1‑800‑25‑ABUSE (1‑800‑252‑2873) or file an online report, according to Illinois DCFS.
Detectives say the investigation remains active, and officials have not released additional details about charges or suspects. This story will be updated as police or district officials make new information available.
