Certain people in certain professions are historically afforded an immense measure of trust by the general public.

One of those groups — teachers — has unfortunately taken a hit locally in recent days thanks to an unfortunate phenomena that seems to be picking up steam not only in Utah, but throughout the nation.

We’re talking about teachers reportedly becoming involved in inappropriate, criminal sexual relationships with their students.

The latest example came to light in late January when officers arrested Payson resident Sarah Lewis, a teacher at Landmark High School in Spanish Fork, on reports of having sexual activity with a minor. Last week, attorneys charged Lewis with rape, and earlier this week, Fourth District Court Judge Samuel McVey doubled the amount of her cash-only bail, referencing what he labeled sexually predatory behavior.

On Wednesday, the situation got even worse when a second student accused Lewis of initiating a sexual relationship.

These two cases — one already officially working its way through the criminal justice system, and one seemingly on its way there — leave a sour taste for everyone involved, including the victims of the reported abuse, fellow students who must deal with the distractions of such a high-profile legal case on their campus, and teachers who must answer for the gross misconduct reportedly carried out by one of their own.

Of course, Lewis has not yet been found guilty of any crime. Guilt or innocence will be up to the Utah County legal system to determine. However, the reported evidence — a phone recording of the first sexual encounter, and a police interview played in court in which Lewis says it “was a one-time thing” — do not bode well for the now former teacher.

While Lewis awaits her day in court, we are left with the following sentiments as we keep an eye on her case.

First, to the general public. Do not allow this one reported bad apple to color your perception of the thousands of men and women who have accepted the noble calling of educating students in Utah County. Much as one rogue cop should not be evidence of a police department gone awry, neither should one rogue teacher.

Nebo School District officials immediately recognized the problem, removed Lewis from the classroom and fired her. The district has done everything it can to keep children safe since being notified of the reported first incident. Continue to support the district and the fine teachers it employs.

Second, to parents in Utah County. Remain vigilant when it comes to the education of your children. Know their teachers. Just as important, know what your children are doing on social media.

And for those of you with kids who are enrolled at “alternative” schools, be hyper aware of what is taking place. There are many reasons for students to choose an alternative school, including behavioral issues that might lead a pupil to being especially vulnerable around a person with authority.

Mix those issues with a teacher with bad intentions, and it’s a recipe for disaster. Again, trust for teachers is paramount. But tricky situations call for extra vigilance. Don’t abdicate this responsibility.

Finally, to those who are teachers or are planning to enter the profession. Recognize the position of trust you have been granted, and that you must conduct yourself differently than the average Jane or Joe.

Yes, you should develop professional relationships with your pupils. You should become a positive influence in their lives. You should strive to make sure they have the best futures possible.

No, you should not become their friends on Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram or any other social media platform. Details of your own personal lives need to remain private. Leave your own troubles at the schoolhouse door. Students are not your peers. Do not treat them as such.

Is that too much to ask? We don’t believe so.

Our children deserve a great education and a great future. Being asked to fight off advances from the people they should trust most, outside of their own parents, doesn’t fit that bill.