SEATTLE — In King County Superior Court, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) admitted it was negligent for failing to remove a teacher who allegedly assaulted a 13-year-old student more than seven years ago.

“They just made this huge concession: ‘We’re liable,’” Judge O’Donnell said to the plaintiff’s attorney Lara Hruska.

The trial, however, is far from over. The district’s admission came shortly before opening statements were set to begin, throwing the day’s proceedings into disarray. With the sudden shift, the court had to pause to determine what evidence would now be admissible.

The courtroom, packed with observers anticipating the start of the trial, quickly emptied. Only one family remained to watch the proceedings unfold.

“It’s frustrating,” said Cheryl Kilodavis, who attended the hear

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