College ‘not defined’ by sex scandal

A school whose former teacher had sex with students in her car, sometimes on lunchtime outings, says it ‘‘will not be defined’’ by the sex scandal.

The school board chairman has released a statement following the woman’s appearance in court on Tuesday, where she admitted having sex with two students and sending naked photographs to one. ‘‘Her actions breached the trust of so many and it is appropriate that she has taken sole responsibility by pleading guilty,’’ the board chairman said. ‘‘The guilty plea ensures justice is provided for all those impacted.’’

The statement was also sent out to parents of college students yesterday.

‘‘This will not define our college, but rather we have grown stronger and even more resolved to be the very best we can be for the sake of our boys and our community.’’

The woman in her 30s, who cannot be named, admitted seven charges of sexual relations with minors and two charges of sending sexual material to minors at the Blenheim District Court.

She told the boy she loved him. It lasted about a year. After inviting another student to join them, that student also met the woman for sex on several occasions.

She was remanded on bail, to be sentenced on December 17.

The board chairman asked for ongoing privacy for all those affected by the offending. ‘‘I am very thankful that this matter will be concluded before the end of the year for the sake of our community, staff, parents and boys.’’