In a compelling legal battle, a former high school student is taking on the Prince William County School Board and an administrator over allegations of wrongful removal from school and failure to address sexual harassment claims. Tyler Shulsky filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia on January 28, 2026, against the Prince William County School Board and Melissa McClellan.
The case revolves around Shulsky’s abrupt removal from Forest Park High School without receiving any academic instruction from January to June 2023. This action followed criminal charges filed against him by another student, which Shulsky asserts were based on false allegations that had been previously reported to school authorities. The complaint highlights how these events led to significant emotional distress and academic setbacks for Shulsky, including failing grades and lost college opportunities. The plaintiff argues that the defendants’ actions violated his rights under the Equal Protection and Due Process Clauses of the U.S. Constitution, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and state laws regarding gross negligence.
Shulsky’s mother had reported the false allegations and subsequent threats of violence to McClellan, who allegedly failed to take appropriate action or inform them of their rights under Title IX. Despite providing evidence refuting the accusations, Shulsky was removed from school based on what he claims were unfounded charges. The complaint accuses McClellan of gross negligence for not addressing reports of sexual harassment adequately. Furthermore, it alleges that both McClellan and Broiles neglected their duties by not reporting these incidents to the Title IX coordinator or offering supportive measures.
The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages up to $2 million for each count related to due process violations under federal and state constitutions, discrimination under Title IX, selective enforcement of policies based on sex, and gross negligence by McClellan. It also requests attorney fees and costs incurred during litigation.
Representing Tyler Shulsky is attorney Debra K. Rose from WhitbeckBeglis PLLC. The case has been assigned Case ID 1:26-cv-00262 in front of judges at the Eastern District Court in Alexandria Division.
Source: 126cv00262_Shulsky_v_Prince_William_County_School_Board_Complaint_Eastern_District_Virginia.pdf
