Mason Introduces Bill to Notify Parents When School Teacher, Administrator is Charged with Sex Crime

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A measure introduced by state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, would bring greater transparency to Illinois public schools by requiring school boards to notify parents in writing when a district employee is charged with a sex offense.

“My heart broke when I heard the news that one of our local educators had been charged with a sex crime involving a minor,” said Mason. “I was also dismayed to learn there were no regulations in place that ensured our schools would directly notify parents when something like this had occurred.”

Mason’s House Bill 4274 stems from recent charges brought against former Zion elementary school principal Curtiss Tolefree for criminal sexual conduct that allegedly occurred at a Wisconsin school in 2008. The charges were announced while Tolefree was still serving as an elementary school principal in Zion.

“As a mom and former school board member, I know that it’s crucial to maintain open and honest channels of communication between schools and families,” said Mason. “Improving our education system has always been one of my top priorities as a legislator, and this measure is just one part of my continued commitment to strengthening our schools and creating better learning environments for our students.”