St. Helens School District Withholds Sexual Abuse Investigation Report, Citing Legal Concerns

A long-awaited investigative report into allegations of sexual abuse within the St. Helens School District has been put on indefinite hold, raising concerns among survivors, parents, and the broader community. The district, which initiated a third-party investigation in December 2024 following multiple allegations against staff members, now claims it cannot release the findings due to potential litigation.

A Troubling Delay in Transparency

The investigation was launched in response to sex abuse charges against high school choir teacher Eric Stearns and former teacher Mark Collins, as well as criminal charges filed against St. Helens High School Principal Dr. Katy Wagner for allegedly failing to protect students. Initially, the district promised to make the findings public within 60 days. However, after multiple delays, it is now unclear if or when the report will be released.

According to Acting Superintendent Dr. Karen Gray, tort claims notices from victims  filed with the district have led it to reconsider release of the report and the District now contends the report is “attorney-client privileged.” While legal strategy may be at play, the decision has left parents frustrated and survivors concerned about accountability and justice.

Legal Action to Protect Survivors’ Rights

Crew Janci LLP, a nationally recognized law firm specializing in sexual abuse cases, is advocating for survivors of abuse in the St. Helens School District. Attorney Peter Janci, who represents seven survivors, questioned the district’s reasoning for withholding the report:

“While Oregon law requires that our clients who are victims submit such notices, there’s nothing in the statute or Oregon law that prevents the district from releasing the type of report that they’ve been talking about. That’s not required. That’s a choice by the district.”

Janci also emphasized that the tort claims notices were filed to ensure survivors retain their right to pursue justice. While legal complexities may be involved, many in the community believe transparency should take precedence over institutional self-preservation.

A Community Seeking Answers

For parents and survivors, the district’s decision to withhold the report feels like yet another failure to prioritize student safety. Many are demanding accountability and urging the district to release the investigation findings to begin the healing process. One parent, Jenni Gilbert, voiced the frustration felt by many:

“They can probably stand on that, but they shouldn’t. It’s so important to the community that they release this investigation, to start giving answers and healing.”

As this case unfolds, Crew Janci LLP remains committed to advocating for survivors, ensuring their voices are heard, and holding institutions accountable for failing to protect students from harm.

Read More

For a deeper dive into this developing story, read the full report from KOIN 6 News here.

Why Choose Crew Janci LLP?

Crew Janci LLP is dedicated to fighting for justice on behalf of survivors of childhood sexual abuse. With decades of experience holding schools, churches, and other institutions accountable, our firm stands by survivors every step of the way. If you or someone you love has been affected by abuse in a school setting, contact us today for a confidential consultation.

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