Former Sun Prairie Principal Charged for Failing to Report Child Abuse

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The former principal of Sun Prairie West High School, Jennifer Ploeger, has been charged with three counts of failing to report child abuse. The charges come after a police investigation into other individuals within the school district following the arrest of former Dean of Students Robert Gilkey-Meisegeier, who faces federal child pornography charges.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of school administrators and educators promptly reporting any suspected child abuse or neglect, as required by law. Failure to do so can enable further abuse and put vulnerable students at risk.

The details

Ploeger, 42, is accused of not reporting child abuse allegations during her time as principal of Sun Prairie West High School. The charges against her are all misdemeanors. The investigation into Ploeger began after the arrest of former Dean of Students Robert Gilkey-Meisegeier, who faces over a dozen charges including child pornography possession and child sexual exploitation.

• Gilkey-Meisegeier was recently indicted on federal child pornography charges and has agreed to plead guilty on February 6, 2026.
• Ploeger's initial court appearance is scheduled for March 2, 2026 in Dane County Circuit Court.

What’s next

The judge will decide whether to allow Ploeger out on bail at her initial court appearance on March 2.