Amber Rowe has filed a lawsuit against the School District of Palm Beach County, alleging negligence and violation of her daughter's rights. The complaint was filed on October 21, 2024, in the Circuit Court for the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida. The case involves serious accusations against the school district concerning an incident that occurred at Hidden Oaks K-8 school.
The plaintiff, Amber Rowe, acting individually and as the parent and natural guardian of her minor daughter M.R., claims that the School District of Palm Beach County (SDPBC) failed to provide adequate care and supervision for M.R., who suffers from multiple disabilities including microcephaly and is confined to a wheelchair. On October 31, 2023, M.R.'s caregiver allegedly left her unattended during a physical education class at Hidden Oaks K-8. As a result, another child accidentally bumped into M.R.'s wheelchair, causing it to roll off a curb and tip over. This incident resulted in significant injuries to M.R., leading to pain and suffering as well as permanent disfigurement.
Rowe's lawsuit asserts that SDPBC had a duty to ensure the safety of students like M.R., particularly given her vulnerabilities. The complaint details numerous alleged failures by SDPBC, including inadequate training and supervision of staff, failure to implement necessary safety measures for disabled students, and neglecting to ensure that caregivers remain attentive at all times. Furthermore, Rowe accuses SDPBC of violating Florida's Bill of Rights for Persons with Developmental Disabilities by failing to protect M.R. from harm.
In addition to seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for medical expenses and emotional distress caused by the incident, Rowe is also pursuing compensation for loss of filial consortium—highlighting how M.R.'s injuries have impacted their familial relationship. The plaintiff demands a jury trial to address these grievances comprehensively.
Representing Amber Rowe is attorney Heather Trick from Driven Law based in Orlando, Florida. The case ID is: 502024CA010064XXXAMB Div: AJ.