A Chicago Public Schools special education assistant has been charged with grooming a 13-year-old student after allegedly using Instagram to contact the girl, according to WGN-TV.
Prosecutors say 41-year-old Mycale Ford — who worked at Gresham Elementary on the South Side — started messaging the student last year. Investigators allege Ford offered money in exchange for explicit photos and admitted knowing the girl’s age when questioned, per CWB Chicago.
A Cook County judge denied bail, calling Ford a “threat to the community.” CPS said in a statement that they acted “swiftly and decisively” once they learned of the allegations but declined to give more details about his employment status.
CPS sent the following statement.
“Chicago Public Schools (CPS) holds all employees to the highest standards of integrity and professional conduct. When credible concerns about employee behavior arise, the District acts swiftly and decisively.
CPS is firmly committed to maintaining safe, ethical, and supportive learning environments for every student and staff member. The District continually reviews and strengthens its safeguards, including robust ethics training, oversight procedures, and accountability measures to protect our school communities.
While CPS does not comment on specific personnel matters or active investigations, the District follows a consistent process when allegations of misconduct are reported. Employees found to have violated Board policy are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.”
Why This Story Matters
Parents and students across Chicago are once again questioning how something like this could happen inside a CPS classroom. With so many kids online, this case highlights the real dangers of digital grooming and the need for schools to take stronger steps to protect students — especially those in vulnerable learning environments.
Fast Facts:
Suspect: Mycale R. Ford, 41, of South Holland School: Gresham Elementary, 8524 S. Green St. Charge: Grooming a minor under Illinois law Victim: 13-year-old girl Sources: WGN-TV, CWB Chicago
