A school known for educating the children of celebrities and professional athletes is facing serious allegations after the family of NFL legend Eric Dickerson claimed his son endured months of racist harassment without adequate protection from administrators.
The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, concerns Dickerson's son, identified as DD, who attended sixth grade at Oaks Christian School in Westlake Village during the 2024-25 academic year.
Tom Brady’s gym video has fans asking if he could still be a top-five NFL quarterback
According to the complaint, as per the California Post, classmates repeatedly directed racial slurs at the boy, physically mistreated him and subjected him to humiliating comments about his race.
The family's attorney, Robert Glassman, accused school officials of failing to respond effectively despite repeated complaints.
"His family repeatedly told Oaks Christian what was happening and asked the school to protect him," Glassman told the California Post. "Instead of stopping the abuse, the school allowed it to continue."
The complaint describes several incidents that allegedly occurred throughout the academic year, including repeated use of the N-word and racist comments during a school-sponsored zoo trip.
During one music lesson, a student allegedly suggested giving Dickerson's son a nickname incorporating a racial slur.
"When (DD) reported the 'Ni**erson' incident, his own teacher accused him of lying, in front of his peers," the lawsuit states.
Another confrontation allegedly involved a female student striking the boy's head during lunch, taking his food and deliberately emptying his water.
According to the complaint, administrators reviewed surveillance footage that confirmed the physical incident but responded only by warning the student against repeating her behavior.
The lawsuit further alleges that a student responsible for repeated racist remarks was known to carry a knife on campus without facing appropriate disciplinary action.
Oaks Christian School disputes allegations
Dickerson and the child's mother reportedly met with Vice Principal Tamara Kuku, proposing measures to address the harassment, including discussions about racist language and direct communication with parents.
The family alleges that those recommendations were not implemented, contributing to their decision to withdraw the child from the school.
Oaks Christian, where annual tuition and fees can approach $48,000, has disputed allegations concerning its response.
"Oaks Christian School is committed to the dignity of every student, consistent with our Christian faith," the school said in a statement.
"We are aware of the lawsuit. The school disputes the allegations regarding its conduct and will respond through the legal process."
The school added that it would not discuss individual students or specific incidents because minors are involved.
NFL legend's family alleges lasting harm
The lawsuit accuses Oaks Christian of negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress and violating California's Unruh Civil Rights Act.
It also references earlier allegations of racial discrimination at the school, including a 2020 petition reportedly signed by thousands of former students.
Dickerson, 66, remains one of the NFL's most accomplished running backs, having set the single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards in 1984 before his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999.
His family's lawsuit now centers on the treatment of his young son, who allegedly continues to experience emotional and developmental difficulties after leaving Oaks Christian.
"No child should be subjected to racial harassment or physical violence at school while the adults entrusted with his safety fail to act," Glassman said.