A lawsuit has been filed against the Peninsula School District by the parents of four girls who were reportedly molested by a former teacher, claiming the district did not take adequate measures to safeguard their children.
Jordan Henderson, 35, faced serious legal troubles in April when he was charged with nine counts of first-degree molestation while working as a fifth-grade teacher at Evergreen Elementary School. Subsequently, three additional charges were filed after a fourth student reported that Henderson had groped and threatened her multiple times during class.
Henderson, maintaining his not-guilty plea, had been on administrative leave during the investigation into the molestation allegations. However, a district spokesperson announced on September 26 that he is no longer with the district.
The legal proceedings involving Henderson are still in progress, according to court documents. A recent report highlighted that he serves as a deacon at a church in Gig Harbor, where his father holds the position of pastor.
A lawsuit initiated in September in Pierce County Superior Court alleges that the district failed to manage Henderson and safeguard students from his inappropriate actions.
The lawsuit claims that the district granted Henderson unrestricted access to the students, despite being aware or having reason to be aware of the substantial risk of sexual abuse and the need for preventive measures.
Attorney Kevin Hastings, representing the plaintiffs in the civil case, shared in an interview that he understood there were concerns from one or more educators regarding Henderson’s interactions with young female students. It was noted that several girls spent time in his classroom during lunch and recess, and one of his clients had informed the school’s principal about observing changes in behavior among her female classmates.
“They knew about it and didn’t take any action,” Hastings said in an interview.
The district refrained from commenting on the allegations, adhering to its policy of not discussing ongoing litigation publicly.
Attorney Brett Purtzer, representing Henderson in the criminal case, affirmed the commitment to the not-guilty plea but chose not to provide additional comments. In April, Hastings addressed a letter to district Superintendent Krestin Bahr, voicing concerns about the district’s handling of the sexual abuse allegations. He expressed disappointment upon learning that Henderson’s mother was still teaching third grade at the school, as revealed in a copy of the letter shared with The News Tribune by Hastings.
The situation presented the students with a dilemma, as the lawsuit stated, forcing them to choose between an unwelcoming educational environment or opting out of school entirely. Evergreen Elementary can be found in the unincorporated area of Lakebay, situated in the northwest region of Pierce County.
A legal action initiated on September 20 alleges that the district acted negligently and caused emotional distress, along with additional claims. A jury trial is being requested, along with claims for unspecified damages, legal fees, and any other relief the court finds suitable.