On September 27, 2020, I received allegations regarding an alleged inappropriate relationship between a Bartlett High School teacher, Gary Lorber, and a former student.  The victim reported this relationship began in 2008. 

As a district, we immediately placed Mr. Lorber on administrative leave and began a thorough investigation.  In addition, as required by law, I reported the allegation to the Department of Children and Family Services.

Our investigation found several instances where Mr. Lorber engaged in inappropriate conduct with female students. 

On Monday evening, November 16, the U-46 Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution terminating Mr. Lorber’s employment in U-46.  In addition, the district immediately forwarded our findings to the Department of Children and Family Services, the DuPage County State’s Attorney, as well as the Illinois State Board of Education with a recommendation that Mr. Lorber’s teaching license be revoked.

Resources for staff members at Bartlett High were available last week and will continue to be available.  Students who may need support will have them made available by contacting the school.

As a district, we have continuously implemented ongoing professional training for all district employees regarding sexual abuse, requirements to report suspected abuse or neglect, and other topics that address the relationship boundaries expected between teachers and students.  We are developing another layer to our professional development to more explicitly address the issue of professional boundaries as well as the requirements to report suspected cases of inappropriate behavior.