Lake County Gazette

The City of Highland Park, North Shore School District 112, and Township High School District 113 are collaborating in response to incidents involving unlawful video recording in bathrooms at Edgewood Middle School and Highland Park High School.

On February 11, 2025, it was reported that a suspicious electronic device had been discovered in a washroom at Highland Park High School by a staff member. Further investigations revealed evidence of prior recordings at Edgewood Middle School. A juvenile student has been identified as the suspect responsible for placing recording devices or mobile phones in the bathrooms of both schools.

Authorities assure that the photo and video recording has ceased. A limited group of administrators from both districts is working closely with the Highland Park Police Department to identify and notify potential victims among students and staff while maintaining sensitivity towards their privacy.

"We are sharing this message with you because we want our community to be aware of what has happened and to know that these serious incidents are being thoroughly investigated and addressed," said representatives from the city and school districts.

Due to the active investigation involving a juvenile, details remain limited. However, authorities emphasize their commitment to facilitating law enforcement's probe and supporting those affected.

Both school districts prioritize ensuring safety within their communities. Measures being taken include:

- Searches conducted by school building personnel across all campus schools in Districts 112 and 113 to ensure no other recording devices are present.

- Title IX investigations initiated in accordance with federal laws prohibiting sex-based discrimination.

- Availability of mental health resources on district websites:

- [District 112’s mental health resource page](https://nssd112.org)

- [HPHS Support Services; Drop In Center](https://hphsdropincenter.org) (available during the school day)

- [DHS Support Services](https://dhssupportservices.org)

- [District 113 employee assistance](https://dist113employeeassistance.org)

Support services will be accessible to students and staff at both schools. Strategies have also been implemented to protect students' right to learn in a safe environment while investigations continue.

Safety personnel are reviewing building practices for potential improvements in monitoring sensitive spaces without compromising privacy. Follow-up communications specific to each school will keep parents, students, and staff informed about additional steps being taken.

For concerns regarding children in North Shore School District 112, parents can contact building administrators or Dr. Holly Colin at hcolin@nssd112.org. For Township High School District 113 inquiries, Mirah Anti can be reached at manti@dist113.org.

Ghida S. Neukirch,

City Manager

Lou Jogmen,

Chief of Police

North Shore School District 112

Michael Lubelfeld,

Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools

Township High School District 113

Chala Holland,

Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools