A Colorado middle school gym teacher has been arrested and charged with multiple crimes after a student reported a year-long sexual relationship that allegedly ended in stalking and harassment.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office announced the arrest of Teresa Whalin, 28, on November 12. Whalin was a physical education teacher at Ranch View Middle School in Highlands Ranch. She was charged with sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, internet exploitation of a child, and stalking. Authorities said she is being held at the Douglas County Detention Facility on a $50,000 bond.
According to law enforcement, a student reported the relationship to a school counselor. The student, approximately 12 years younger than Whalin, claimed the relationship began in April 2023 and continued until April 2024. The student alleged the relationship became sexual after initially spending time alone with Whalin in her office after school hours.
The student told investigators that Whalin began driving them to and from school without parental permission. The affidavit states the two exchanged photos over Snapchat, ate meals together, and spent unsupervised time in the school building. After the student attempted to end the relationship to be with a classmate, Whalin allegedly began appearing along the student’s route to and from school.
Authorities say Whalin later admitted to the relationship, including sending nude photographs, and to creating fake phone numbers in order to contact and harass the student following the breakup. The school district confirmed Whalin has been placed on administrative leave and stated it is cooperating with the investigation.
Officials are asking anyone with relevant information or concerns to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation remains ongoing.
