Erin's Law (Grades K-3)

Dear Families and Guardians,

Annually, since 2013, District 62 is required to provide information to our students on age-appropriate sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention consistent with Erin’s Law. Erin’s Law was named in honor of Erin Merryn, a brave young woman who has crossed the country advocating for laws that will increase awareness of sexual abuse against children. We note this is not a new requirement and has been in place in the state of Illinois for several years.

This law requires school districts to provide age appropriate instruction on sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention to preK through 8th grade students. District 62 trained mental health teams will instruct these lessons, alongside classroom teachers. Erin’s Law lessons include a variety of structures in the form of discussions, activities, videos and/or role play scenarios. Lessons are focused around the following topics: safe and unsafe touches, getting help, boundaries, and empowerment. District 62 utilizes the Child Protection Unit of the Second Step Program. This lesson is segmented into two, 30 minute lessons. Throughout these lessons there is an emphasis placed on confiding in trusted adults in order to support in navigating difficult discussions.

It is important to note that nationwide, 1 in 3 girls, and 1 in 5 boys, will be the victim of child sexual abuse by the age of 18. Strangers were just 3% of the offenders in cases of victims under age 6, and 5% of youth ages 6-11. Only one in 10 abused children tell someone. The goal of Erin’s Law and Second Step is to provide each student with the appropriate skills required to maintain personal safety.

If you have any questions or would like additional information on the Erin’s Law presentations, please contact your school’s administrator. If you would like your child to opt out of these lessons taking place the weeks of September 22nd and 29th, please call or email one of the people listed below by September 19th.

Visit http://www.erinslawillinois.org to explore further information on Erin’s Law.

Thank you,

Ms. Amber Soike, Principal - (847) 824-1376

Ms. Traci Reiner, Assistant Principal - (847) 824-1631

Ms. Gina Biancalana, Social Worker - (847) 824-1367

Ms. Maya Donnelly, Social Worker - (847) 824-1380