Former Legacy Christian Academy students frustrated by slow court process

A number of Legacy Christian Academy alumni were in Saskatoon Provincial Court on Thursday, hoping to hear from the school’s former principal.

Ken Schultz has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual assault and assault with a weapon, making him the fourth former employee of the independent school to face criminal charges.

But Thursday’s appearance was largely due to a change of lawyer by Schultz, who will have new legal representation when he returns to court for trial on May. 15. Schultz did not appear personally on Thursday.

Former student Caitlin Erickson said she’s been in contact with the alleged victim, who is annoyed by the slow court process. That individual can’t be named because of a publication ban.

“(They are) very frustrated with the process and frustrated that Schultz hasn’t had to appear in court at all, even when he was initially arrested,” she said.

“Obviously the court process has led to a bit of frustration.”

Erickson said she understands that the justice system takes time, but said that doesn’t help the frustration she and other former students are feeling.

“I think we just want to see some justice, and this is part of the process, and it’s a lengthy process,” she added.

Erickson said the former students will continue to stand together.

“The alumni group that has really come together is really strong,” she said. “We’re here for the long haul and we aren’t going away. We’ll just keep showing up.”

Earlier this month, Aaron Benneweis, the school’s former athletic director, was handed a two-year sentence after pleading guilty to sexual assault and sexual exploitation of a minor.

In addition to the criminal charges, a number of former students have launched a class-action lawsuit, seeking $25 million in damages from the school, its affiliated church, and a number of former employees.

The allegations emerging from the school also prompted the Saskatchewan government to increase its oversight at independent schools.