Like many state school officials, those in Utah are struggling to make sure that their students are safe from sexual predators. But the question is: Are criminal background checks enough? A 62-year-old high school choir director had a relationship with a 17-year-old student and later married her. While no charges are being filed, he is on paid administrative leave.
This is not the only high profile case in Utah in recent months. Jose Fanjul, who taught history, was charged with sexual misconduct with a girl who was 16. He was acquitted of all the charges. However a counselor, Marco Herrera, pleaded guilty to having sex with the same girl.
The high profile cases have led to policy changes that include criminal background checks for all teachers, not just those who have recently been hires. However even top educators admit that background checks may not be enough. In a statement to a Utah newspaper, Larry Shumway, state superintendent of schools, said that no matter how many rules there are, some educators will still break them.
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705344788/Are-students-safe-from-predators.html
