Lawsuits Filed Against Wake County School Board for Abuse and Discrimination Against Students with Disabilities

For Immediate Release

Lawsuits Filed Against Wake County School Board for Abuse and Discrimination Against Students with Disabilities

Wake County, NC — The Law Office of Neubia L. Harris, PLLC, in partnership with The Law Office of Aviance D. Brown, PLLC, has filed lawsuits on behalf of two families whose children, both students with disabilities, suffered egregious abuse while enrolled in the Wake County Public School System (“WCPSS”).

In 2022, both families received anonymous letters revealing that their children—students in the Extended Content Standards classroom at East Wake High School—had been subjected to repeated physical and verbal assaults by their special education teacher. Despite multiple reports of this abuse by WCPSS staff to school administrators, central office personnel, and an area superintendent, the teacher remained employed for over a year. Shockingly, WCPSS later honored this teacher with a “Teacher of the Week” award, underscoring a disturbing lack of accountability and oversight.

Although school officials claim to have initiated an investigation, no meaningful action was taken for months, and no one was held responsible. This failure to act highlights a systemic problem within WCPSS and a critical need for reform to ensure the safety and dignity of all students, particularly those most vulnerable.

The lawsuits allege a pattern and practice of systemic discrimination against students with disabilities, seeking to hold both the teacher and school officials accountable for their unlawful conduct. Legal claims are brought under the United States and North Carolina Constitutions, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and related state law provisions.

“We are deeply concerned for the safety of students across Wake County, especially those with disabilities, in light of WCPSS’s repeated inaction,” said Neubia L. Harris, Esq. “Every child deserves to learn in an environment that respects their needs and dignity—free from fear, harm, and discrimination. We are committed to fighting for justice for these families and for all students harmed by systemic failures in our schools.”

About The Law Office of Neubia L. Harris, PLLC

The Law Office of Neubia L. Harris, PLLC is dedicated to protecting the civil rights and liberties of every child and student in North Carolina. Our firm zealously advocates to ensure that K-12 students receive a sound, basic education free from bullying, discrimination, and excessive discipline. We also defend the rights of college students, teachers, professors, and educational staff at all levels.

About The Law Office of Aviance D. Brown, PLLC

ADB Law is committed to advancing civil rights and justice. Attorney Brown has represented individuals and communities harmed by discrimination and systemic injustice in both state and federal courts, holding negligent officials and employers accountable. Her work reflects a deep commitment to equity, empowerment, and meaningful change.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Neubia L. Harris

The Law Office of Neubia L. Harris, PLLC

312 W. Millbrook Road, Suite 141

Raleigh, NC 27609

(919) 526-0500 (telephone)

Aviance D. Brown

The Law Office of Aviance D. Brown, PLLC

4033 Village Park Drive, #1105

Knightdale, NC 27545

(919) 351-2113 (telephone)