Mother sues RPS 205 over allegations of abuse of her special needs child

ROCKFORD, Ill. – Rockford Public Schools District #205 is facing a civil lawsuit following an incident in November, 2024.

The 7-year-old child, who the family says is non-verbal and diagnosed with autism was enrolled in the “PLUS Program” at Rolling Green Elementary School.

The lawsuit alleges, Special Education Teacher Dawn Gillis, physically assaulting the boy on November 7, 2024. Gillis was arrested by Rockford Police and charged with battery.

The lawsuit names Gillis, as well as District 205, Special Education Administrator Brett Vosburgh, and Rolling Green Elementary School Principal Amy Powel. The counts in the complaint including willful and wonton conduct, negligent infliction of emotional distress and others.

“Since the incident at Rolling Green Elementary on November 7, 2024, we have observed a significant decline in our child’s emotional well-being and behavior. Initially, our child exhibited severe anger, withdrawal, and agitation. The loss of the routine and safety they once enjoyed has left our child feeling distressed and, presumably, reluctant to attend school, a stark contrast to their previous excitement. Following this event, my child was denied access to education and the subsequent struggles with the school district regarding their re-entry to school have been marked by repeated violations of our child’s rights, as confirmed by the Illinois State Board of Education,” stated the Plaintiff, mother of John Doe.

Rockford Public Schools told us, “The district doesn’t comment on confidential student matters. Further, the district doesn’t comment on anticipated or pending litigation.”

Gillis has a court date on the battery charges on September 4th at the Winnebago County Courthouse.