Summary: The education sector faces a broad range of risks, from workers' compensation injuries to employment practices exposures - and these challenges continue to evolve. Learn more about the insurance risks facing schools and educational institutions and how the right coverage can help protect them. Common Risks Faced by School Employees
Teachers face a variety of job-related injury risks, particularly repetitive stress injuries caused by frequent writing, computer use, and other repetitive tasks. They may also experience back, hip, or leg issues resulting from extended periods standing in the classroom.
The risks for educational institutions are not limited to teachers. Building maintenance staff face their own set of workplace hazards. Tasks such as replacing light bulbs, inspecting leaks, or performing repairs can increase the risk of falls from ladders. Cafeteria employees may be exposed to common kitchen-related injuries, including cuts, burns, and sprains.
Student violence can also pose injury risks for teachers and staff. For example, a teacher may be injured while intervening in a student's altercation. Special education teachers, in particular, may work with students who exhibit behaviors such as scratching, hitting, or biting, which can increase the risk of workplace injuries.
While workplace injuries remain a concern across the education sector, AmTrust is here to help educational institutions protect their employees. We offer workers' compensation insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of educational organizations, including charter schools, private and faith-based schools, and higher education institutions.
Property Exposures for Educational Institutions
School property presents risks to both staff and students. Faulty playground equipment, which could lead to student injuries, presents a potential liability issue for the school. Uneven sidewalks are a common tripping hazard that can result in injuries to students or faculty. During winter, icy conditions present a potential slip-and-fall risk due to improperly maintained walkways and parking lots.
Property exposures are not limited to outdoor areas. School buildings can also present potential risks. An undetected mold issue could cause illness among students or staff. During winter, a frozen pipe can burst, causing severe water damage.
AmTrust's Risk Control department specializes in risk management and offers an extensive collection of resources designed to help educational institutions protect their commercial property and reduce potential losses.
School Violence and Bullying Risks
A reality of the education landscape is that school shootings and
active assailant incidents remain a serious risk for students, educators, and staff.
According to
Education Week, there were 39 school (K-12) shootings in 2024 that resulted in 8 student or other children fatalities, 10 school employee or other adult fatalities, and 59 people injured.
Schools are charged with keeping children safe, and there can be consequences when they fail to do so. While the family members of the victims of the Uvalde school shooting settled with the city in 2024, they have also filed lawsuits against Uvalde's school district.
Similarly, bullying and other types of student violence can result in a liability claim against a school or school district if it is found to be negligent in providing adequate supervision and security.
These incidents can create significant safety, reputational, and liability risks for educational institutions. Be sure to review your
liability policies thoroughly and work with your AmTrust-appointed agent to ensure you have the coverage you need.
Employment Practices Exposures for Schools
Like any workplace, employment-related claims such as discrimination, wrongful termination, or sexual harassment can pose risks to educational institutions. For example, if a school staff member is laid off, it may lead to claims of wrongful termination. In one case, discrimination and retaliation against a school in Michigan led to a $107,000 settlement.
An employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) policy can help protect your educational institution. An EPLI policy applies to all employees of an insured business, including temporary, part-time, full-time, seasonal, volunteer, and independent contract workers. Enhanced EPLI coverage may also provide protection against punitive damages and certain third-party claims. AmTrust's EPLI product offers coverage for a variety of employment-related allegations, including discrimination, wrongful termination or demotion, sexual harassment, and retaliation.
Small Business Insurance Coverage for Schools from AmTrust
AmTrust offers a variety of coverage to help protect educational institutions. Our small business insurance products are designed to help safeguard school property, employees, and operations from the unique risks facing the education sector.
Contact us today to learn how our insurance solutions can help protect your school.
This material is for informational purposes only. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors. Coverages may vary by location. Contact your local RSM for more information.