Former LPS Teacher Requests New Trial After Conviction

Hilary Everett claims irregularities and insufficient evidence in recent child abuse case

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A former Lincoln Public Schools special education teacher, Hilary Everett, has filed for a new trial following her recent conviction on charges of intentional child abuse. Everett, 44, was found guilty earlier this month of allegations that she applied hand sanitizer to children's mouths, put bleach water on their hands, and slapped a child on the neck while working at Beattie Elementary School. Everett is now claiming there were irregularities and misconduct in the previous court proceedings, as well as insufficient evidence to support the guilty verdict.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of vulnerable students, particularly those with special needs, and the importance of thorough investigations and fair trials when allegations of abuse arise within the school system. The request for a new trial also raises questions about the integrity of the judicial process and whether all proper procedures were followed.

The details

According to court documents, Hilary Everett is claiming there were irregularities and misconduct involving the prosecutor and witnesses during the previous trial that led to her conviction on charges of intentional child abuse. Everett is also arguing that the guilty verdict is not supported by sufficient evidence.

  • Everett was found guilty earlier this month (February 2026).
  • New court documents were filed last week (February 2026) requesting a new trial.

The players

Hilary Everett

A 44-year-old former special education teacher at Beattie Elementary School in Lincoln, Nebraska who was recently convicted of intentional child abuse and is now requesting a new trial.

Beattie Elementary School

The Lincoln, Nebraska school where Everett worked as a special education teacher and the location of the alleged child abuse incidents.

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What they’re saying

“New court documents filed last week in Lancaster County show that a former LPS special education teacher is requesting a new trial.”

— Jeff Motz, Author (kfornow.com)

What’s next

The judge will need to review Everett's request for a new trial and determine whether there is merit to her claims of irregularities and insufficient evidence.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of ensuring fair and thorough judicial processes, especially when dealing with allegations of abuse against vulnerable students. The request for a new trial raises concerns about the integrity of the initial proceedings and the need for the justice system to uphold the highest standards of due process.