What Educator Sexual Misconduct Really Means

Educator sexual misconduct happens when a teacher, coach, counselor, or other school staff member behaves inappropriately toward a student in a sexual way. This can include unwanted touching, sexual comments, online sexual messages, or any behavior that crosses professional boundaries.

While schools are meant to be safe spaces for learning, a survey shows that parents in Illinois are deeply concerned about these violations. In a 2024 study commissioned by KIDS TOO, more than 100 Illinois parents and guardians were surveyed about school safety issues. 

Why Is This a School Safety Issue?

Teachers and school staff hold a lot of power over students, and when that power is abused, it can seriously harm a child’s trust, well-being, and ability to learn. Schools are supposed to be safe places, but even one adult crossing boundaries can make students feel unsafe, anxious, or withdrawn. 

KIDS TOO has featured cases from schools where students were taken advantage of by a teacher or older students. One survivor shared his story from 65 years ago, when he was in 7th grade and was drawn in by a female teacher. 

Reports and research, like In Loco Parentis Volume 1 by KIDS TOO, show that these incidents don’t always get the attention they need. The report highlights gaps in how schools handle allegations and stresses the importance of creating trauma-free environments where students can feel protected.

Warning Signs Parents Should Know

It’s not always easy to spot when something is wrong, but parents can watch for changes in their child’s behavior or how they interact at school. Some warning signs include:

  • Behavioral changes. Your child may suddenly become withdrawn, anxious, or unusually secretive. They might lose interest in friends, sports, or activities they usually enjoy.

  • Boundary issues. Pay attention if your child talks about teachers or staff hugging too much, making sexual jokes, or asking them to keep secrets.

  • Other red flags at school. Avoiding certain staff members, showing fear around specific adults, or being nervous about school events can all be signs that something isn’t right.

Trust your instincts. If your child seems uncomfortable or something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to listen, ask questions, and take action to keep them safe.

Gaps in School Accountability

Even with laws and policies in place, schools don’t always handle reports of sexual misconduct the same way. This can leave students and families unsure about what will happen if something goes wrong. Some of the biggest gaps include:

Lack of Transparency

Schools sometimes don’t clearly share how they handle complaints or what steps they take to keep students safe.

Inconsistent Policies or Enforcement

Rules might exist on paper, but schools don’t always follow them the same way or enforce them fairly across all staff.

Faith’s Law (HB 1975)

Illinois has made important progress in closing these gaps. In December 2021, Faith’s Law (HB 1975) passed with the help of KIDS TOO and survivor advocate Faith Colson. This law:

  • Expands the legal definition of grooming

  • Increases protections and resources for survivors and their families

  • Requires school districts to create a sexual misconduct code of conduct

  • Makes schools review educators’ employment history

  • Boosts training for teachers and staff

How Parents Can Protect Their Children

Parents play a big role in keeping kids safe at school.  

  1. Ask the right questions. Don’t be afraid to ask your child’s school about policies and procedures. Questions like:

  • “How do you handle reports of inappropriate behavior?”

  • “What training do staff get to prevent misconduct?”

  • “Who should I contact if I have concerns?”

  1. Stay informed. Keep up with school newsletters, emails, and board updates. Use school apps or online portals to check for announcements or safety alerts.

  2. Be involved in your child’s school life. Attend parent-teacher meetings, volunteer when possible, and show interest in school activities.

  3. Talk openly with your child. Ask them about their day, how they feel about their teachers, and if anything makes them uncomfortable. Encourage honesty and reassure them that it’s safe to speak up.

  4. Take action when needed. If something doesn’t feel right, follow up with the school or reach out to trusted organizations that focus on student safety.

How KIDS TOO Helps

KIDS TOO works to protect children by addressing the real risks they face in schools. The organization advocates for stronger policies, educates families and educators about warning signs of abuse, and raises public awareness about educator sexual misconduct. Through research, training programs, and community engagement, KIDS TOO ensures that schools not only respond to incidents appropriately but also prevent them before they happen.

Get Involved Today

You don’t have to sit back while students face danger. Learn more about educator sexual misconduct, share what you know with friends and family, or join efforts to make schools safer. 

Every voice matters. Whether it’s speaking up, supporting reforms, or helping spread awareness, you can make a real difference in protecting kids and creating safer schools for everyone.



educator sexual misconduct