Worrisome cases involving educators

Spurred by recent high-profile cases, Education Commissioner David P. Driscoll wants schools to be more vigilant about possible abuse by teachers of students. Some cases that drew attention this month:

Michelle Amundson, a teacher in the Chelmsford public schools, pleaded guilty to charges of rape and assault of a 12-year-old boy.

Amber Jennings, a teacher in the Dudley-Charlton Regional School District, pleaded not guilty to inducing a 16-year-old boy to have sex.

Jose Arana, a coach at Notre Dame Academy in Hingham, pleaded not guilty this month to rape charges involving a 15-year-old girl.

Reporting abuse

Parents who fear that their children have been victims of abuse can notify either school officials or the police, and both are required to report allegations to the Department of Social Services. The Department of Education suggests that parents turn first to officials they feel more confident approaching, whether a school principal or the police. However, parents should feel free to call both, officials said.

Source: News reports, Department of Education