Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A former employee of the New Berlin School District has pleaded not guilty to charges accusing her of having sexual contact with a minor.

Court records indicate Lindsey Prather, 43, made the plea Friday to five counts of Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse and one count of Child Sexual Abuse Material.

Our news partners at WAND-TV report Prather allegedly had the relationship between May of 2021 and April of 2025, shortly before she was dismissed.

She’ll be back in court for a potential trial April 13, and has been placed on electronic home monitoring.

“Our mission remains to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for all of our students, and the safety of our children is of paramount importance,” said a school district statement to WAND.  “The allegations against Ms. Prather allege conduct that violates the core principles and values of our District. We will continue to work tirelessly to support and protect our children, and our team stands ready to assist any students or staff members who are negatively impacted by this indictment. As always, the District encourages any student or person with any concerns to report them to administration.”