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ARTICLE · 28 MAY 2020

Top Eight Action Items For Educational Institutions To Avoid, Prepare For, And Resolve COVID-19 Class Actions

Foley & Lardner LLP
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Dozens of class action lawsuits have been filed against educational institutions since March and more are expected.

United StatesConsumer Protection
Vanessa Miller
Vanessa Miller
Kendall E. Waters
Kendall E. Waters
Jay Varon
Jay Varon
Barry G. Felder
Barry G. Felder
Michael Leffel
Michael Leffel
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Dozens of class action lawsuits have been filed against educational institutions since March and more are expected. Although each lawsuit attacks a specific institution's individualized response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the lawsuits generally allege breach of contract, along with common law unjust enrichment and conversion tort claims. 

All segments of higher education are targets. Students are commencing class actions against members of the Ivy League, flagship state universities, and smaller liberal arts colleges. Similar claims may eventually reach private elementary schools, parochial schools, and college preparatory academies. These lawsuits threaten to add to the already significant financial shock hitting higher education. 

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