Recent cases of teachers sexually abusing students have caused many high school counselors, parents and school administrators to look at the behavior guidelines for teachers and students. But because nobody specifically tracks sexual abuse or misconduct by educators, it’s unclear if the number of incidents is on the rise or if students are simply more willing to come forward.

“No parent sends their child to school thinking they are going to have sex with a teacher,” said Robert Shoop, an education law expert at Kansas State University who researches sexual exploitation of students. “These people are not hanging around playgrounds in trench coats. They are often popular, gregarious and well-liked teachers.”

Learn about the warning signs of sexual predators and what you can do as a high school counselor to ensure the safety of your students.