Priority Risks for Independent Schools

This publication identifies common patterns in five key claim areas that tend to increase liability exposure for independent K-12 schools. Recognizing these patterns is a critical first step in taking effective action to address them. The losses that cost schools the most often begin with common situations: a missed red flag, a poorly documented incident, or an inconsistent employment process. This report was designed to show independent K-12 schools how they can reduce their risks through stronger policies and practices.  

For an alternative way to access the information in this report, view the associated PowerPoint and Discussion Guide. 

• This report addresses five areas in which United Educators’ (UE’s) independent K-12 school members collectively experience the most severe and frequent claims: Employee on Student Sexual Misconduct; Slips, Trips, and Falls; Athletics Injuries; Employment Discrimination; and Wrongful Termination.
• UE analyzed the claims and compiled the most common liability themes seen. For each area, we created a hypothetical scenario based on the claims and provided practical risk management tips designed to help reduce potential liability in similar circumstances.
• Independent K-12 school members should review their own claims experiences and use this publication to help improve prevention and response in these five areas.