Lauren Long is a 30 year old English teacher in Utica (Mohawk Falls School District). She’s charged with two counts of third-degree rape, one count of third-degree criminal sexual act and a misdemeanor count of endangering the welfare of a child:

School district officials declined to say what personnel steps may have been taken in response to the charges, which came as school and classes ended for the year.

In a statement, Superintendent Joyce Caputo said the district plans to take all the necessary steps to respect Long’s rights while also “taking all prudent steps to ensure the safety and welfare of students.”

Although police said no incidents took place at the school, the district will conduct its own investigation, Caputo said.

It’s odd to me how fixated school districts always seem to be with location. As if the sex occurring off of school grounds really changes anything.

And yay, student reactions:

Some students said Monday they have trouble believing the charges are true.

“She always has been nice to everyone,” said Carlie Johnson, who just finished seventh grade. “I don’t see how she could have done that. She’s not the type of woman who would do that.”

Carlie hasn’t had Long as a teacher but often talked to her in the hallway.

Kaylee Sponburgh, who just finished eighth grade and had Long as a teacher, said she doesn’t believe the charges. “She just doesn’t seem like that type of person,” Kaylee said.

The article also goes in depth a bit on teacher student scandals:

Charol Shakeshaft, a professor of education at Hofstra University, has studied sexual relationships between students and teachers for about 15 years.

Shakeshaft said she found through a national study with Hofstra University for the U.S. Department of Education that reported incidents of sexual misconduct between teachers and children are increasing. It is uncertain whether more acts are occurring or if it’s just that more are being reported, she said.

Well, we definitely know they’re receiving more media attention.

Long was released on bond last Friday, and no word on when she’ll next be in court.