Canada: Rideau Park School teacher accused of sex crimes has ‘loyal following’

Story here. Excerpt:

'It began as a bad dream for parents: a letter home from school officials informing them that a much-loved Calgary teacher had been accused of sex crimes against a teenage student.

A day after police charged a female Rideau Park School teacher with sexual assault and sexual interference, many parents say they are shocked by the allegations.

But some are standing behind the teacher, who is in her 40s, calling her “excellent” and “talented,” and say no matter the outcome of the case, her good work should not be forgotten.

“The teacher is a much-loved teacher at the school,” said Lisa Poole, president of the school council, although she was not speaking on behalf of the group. “She’s excellent with the children, she’s hardworking.

“She has made an enormous contribution to the school and has a very loyal following.”

The teacher was arrested Tuesday and charged with sexual assault and sexual interference. Police accuse her of having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old boy for a year.

Police refuse to identify her, but she will be in court Jan. 28. The Calgary Board of Education teacher is suspended with pay.'