"Every girl should be able to go to school without being groped or jeered.  And parents should have the right to demand harassment-free schools for their children -- even if they need a court order to do so," said Ireland.  "However, the 5-4 decision sets the bar too high for girls who face sexual harassment in schools throughout the country."

The High Court ruling allowed schools to be held liable for damages for failing to stop student-on-student sexual harassment, but only if the school was deliberately indifferent to the harassment.  The case was filed by Aurelia Davis, when school officials failed to stop months of sexual harassment of Davis' daughter LaShonda by a classmate who ultimately pleaded guilty to sexual battery.

"Sexual harassment is a common occurrence in school.  In one study, more than one in 10 middle and high school girls reported being forced to perform a sexual act other than kissing; 65 percent said they had been grabbed or pinched; and 76 percent said they had faced unwanted sexual remarks, gestures or looks at school.  Those girls and young women now have some recourse when school officials ignore their complaints," Ireland said.

Ireland, who is an attorney, is available for comment.  Please contact NOW's Press Office at 202-331-0066 to schedule an interview.

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