LUBBOCK, Texas — A federal lawsuit was filed against the Lubbock Independent School District on Thursday morning regarding the Evans Middle School cheerleaders who suffered second and third-degree burns after performing “bear crawls” on a hot outdoor track as a punishment.
EverythingLubbock.com previously reported that in October 2024, the girls were told to do the bear crawls and crab walks for a mile, but most weren’t able to continue after two laps due to the pain. The girls said the punishment happened around 2 p.m. One of the parents told EverythingLubbock.com they went to the track to check the temperature that afternoon, and it was at least 125 degrees.
The lawsuit filed on behalf of some of the cheerleaders said the punishment was for a cheer the girls performed at a game the previous night. According to the complaint, some of the girls needed extensive medical treatment. Lubbock ISD previously confirmed the coach who enforced the punishment was no longer employed with the district.
According to the complaint, the school district “failed to sufficiently train staff to address and protect the needs of children in general – and especially children who are a part of a team or group under the direction and leadership of a school official…”
The lawsuit sought compensation for physical pain, medical expenses, reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses and more. A specific number was not mentioned. The lawsuit requested a jury trial.
EverythingLubbock.com invited the school district to provide a statement. Lubbock ISD stated, “We don’t provide comments on pending litigation.”
