Former Rochester teacher accused of sexual relationship with student

ROCHESTER, Ill. (WAND) — A now former Rochester teacher is being investigated for possibly having a sexual relationship with a student.

Documents obtained by WAND News revealed that the district suspended the teacher in September after being notified about the relationship. The district then contacted police and the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).

According to an ISBE educator misconduct form, the teacher was accused of having sex with the 17-year-old student at least once. Records also show the relationship may have happened in 2024.

The teacher, who was 27 at the time of the allegations, resigned in November 2025. The teacher's license has been revoked by the state of Illinois. Records indicate the teacher was a 3rd grade special education teacher and an assistant track coach at the time of her resignation.

WAND News is not naming the teacher until confirmation of criminal charges, if any.

A statement sent to WAND News by the school district and board of education said:

"While distraught that a student may have been subject to inappropriate conduct by a teacher, our immediate focus was twofold: one, removing the teacher from interaction with children pending an investigation, and two, reporting the alleged crimes to the appropriate authorities. The district immediately notified DCFS, ISBE, and law enforcement officials and placed the teacher on administrative leave. We fully cooperated with all entities, while maintaining compliance with the terms of the Illinois Student Records Act and FERPA, which limit to whom information can be disclosed. Because the former student was an adult, we could not legally share information with their family, no matter how deeply we may have wanted to do so.
We recognize that things can always be done better and with more care. Retrospection is a valuable tool and essential to the ongoing improvement of any organization. Our focus upon receipt of the allegations was a prompt, thorough, and unimpeded investigation. At the same time, the district is unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding student privacy and will rigorously comply with all relevant laws and regulations. Our community remains strong, and our families stand united. We encourage everyone to continue supporting this family."

The district said it did not conduct its own investigation at the request of police to "avoid interfering with their ongoing inquiry."

WAND News has reached out to the Sangamon County State's Attorney about possible charges, but have not heard back.