Data obtained from the Texas Education Agency shows a continuous rise in allegations of inappropriate teacher and student relationships.
The number of opened investigations into allegations of inappropriate relationships between teachers and minors and students has increased 42 percent since last fiscal year, data from the Texas Education Agency showed.
It’s a 249 percent increase since a decade ago. Records show 429 cases were opened against educators during the 2017-2018 school year.
Some of the previous years’ investigations may remain open. Rollovers are not included in the numbers.
TEA said the accused behavior is sometimes considered criminal, but not always. If a criminal charge is pending, TEA will investigate after the criminal proceedings. Currently, TEA has nine investigators and a supervisor to handle the cases.