A middle school teacher in suburban Denver has been arrested after having a sexual relationship with a teenage student that lasted over a year, followed by stalking behavior once the relationship ended. Teresa Whalin, 28, who taught integrated wellness at Ranch View Middle School in Douglas County, faces charges including sexual assault, internet exploitation of a child, and stalking.
The student involved was reportedly 14 years old when the relationship began in April 2023. They met through the teacher’s gym class, and the student often visited Whalin’s office after school seeking support for mental health issues. According to an arrest affidavit, Whalin exchanged nude photos with the student and engaged in sexual acts. When the student decided to end things and pursue a relationship with a classmate, Whalin allegedly continued to follow and call the student from fake phone numbers, causing the student to feel afraid due to what appeared to be jealous and persistent stalking.
Authorities say Whalin admitted to the relationship and acknowledged her actions were wrong, accepting that she should face jail time. She was booked into the Douglas County Detention Center on a $50,000 bond and has been placed on administrative leave by the school district, where she had worked since mid-2021.
This troubling case adds to the growing number of reports involving educators abusing their positions and engaging in sexual misconduct with students. Research shows a sharp rise in such incidents over the past decade. A 2023 report highlighted increases of 53% in reported sexual assaults and almost 100% in reported rapes or attempted rapes involving teachers since 2015-2016. Experts warn these numbers likely understate the problem, as only a small fraction of students officially report such abuse.
School officials and law enforcement continue to stress the importance of vigilance and support for students facing difficult situations. Cases like this highlight the need for clear boundaries between adults in education and their students, along with safe avenues for students to speak up.
