FARMINGTON, Utah — The Davis School District has been put on notice the family of 10-year-old Izzy Tichenor plans to file a lawsuit against them over her death.
A notice of claim was sent to the district on Wednesday. A copy of the notice was shared with FOX 13 News. It seeks more than $14 million in damages over her death by suicide last year.
The notice accuses the district of failing to take meaningful action on reports of bullying and racism targeting Tichenor, in violation of state constitutional rights guaranteeing children a right to an education. The notice of claim accuses the district of creating "an environment where her assailants are rewarded for 'unjustified intrusions on [her] personal security' while she continued to be isolated, frustrated by her disabilities and distinctions and most of all, alone in a school charged with protecting her and teaching her."
If the district does not settle, a lawsuit would be filed. The Tichenor family's attorney declined to comment to FOX 13 News on Wednesday.
"The Davis School District sends its sincere, heartfelt condolences to the family of Izzy Tichenor. As we approach the anniversary of her passing, we are mindful of the impact she’s left on the community. We love Izzy and our focus and energy remain devoted to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students," the district said in a statement. "We appreciate the interest on the case, but until we carefully review it and confer with legal counsel, our district will not be able to comment further."
Sunday will mark one year since Tichenor's death.
The Davis School District has faced accusations of discriminatory conduct in the past. The U.S. Department of Justice settled with the district over accusations of racial harassment last year.
