From Lawsuits to Lessons Learned: Handling Litigation in Florida Charter Schools

About the Webinar:

John Leombruno opened his session by outlining the litigation landscape charter schools are increasingly facing. He explained that many of the disputes he handles begin with complaints from employees, parents, or outside parties, often escalating into lawsuits ranging from employment claims and discrimination cases to negligence, vendor disputes, and special education challenges. Leombruno stressed that while charter schools once avoided much of this litigation, they are now being targeted with the same types of lawsuits as traditional districts. His central message was clear: prevention and proactive measures are far more valuable than responding after a lawsuit has already been filed.

A significant portion of the presentation was dedicated to employment-related disputes, including wrongful termination, retaliation, discrimination under Title VII and the ADA, and wage and hour claims under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Leombruno noted that many of these cases involve relatively small sums of money but become costly because of attorney’s fees and litigation expenses. He emphasized the importance of strong documentation practices, consistent application of policies, and timely communication to mitigate risk. He also described how due process and special education-related complaints, often initiated by parent advocates, can quickly escalate if not addressed thoroughly and professionally.

Leombruno then discussed record-keeping, investigations, and communication, underscoring the necessity of accurate documentation, secure storage of evidence (such as video recordings), and prompt responses to complaints. He warned that lapses in documentation or delays in investigations can create significant vulnerabilities in court, even when the school acted properly. He further emphasized that all communication—whether internal emails, parent interactions, or digital app messages—should remain professional and channeled through formal systems, since casual or sarcastic remarks often become damaging evidence in litigation.

The session concluded with practical advice on handling lawsuits when they occur. Leombruno walked through the steps schools must take immediately upon being served, including notifying insurance carriers, preserving records, and involving legal counsel early to avoid costly mistakes. He encouraged schools to train staff on what to do if served with a complaint, designate a central point of contact, and foster a culture of compliance and transparency. Finally, he reminded participants that settlement is not a “dirty word”—sometimes it is the most cost-effective resolution compared to the financial and educational toll of prolonged litigation. His overarching message: with prevention, documentation, and timely legal guidance, schools can minimize risks and stay focused on their mission of serving students.