Authorities in Vermont say a 44-year-old teacher was arrested on suspicion of having a sexual relationship with a juvenile student.

According to People, Anitra Lahiri was an educator at the Lyndon Institute in Lyndon Center at the time the alleged illicit relationship took place.

WCAX cited a police report alleging she and the 17-year-old male student engaged in sexual activity on at least two occasions during the spring of last year.

The alleged victim reportedly told authorities he first began spending time with Lahiri after reaching out via social media when she led a study hall he attended at the boarding school. Investigators allege one sexual liaison took place at the teacher’s home and another in her classroom on campus.

Police report Lahiri was arrested earlier this month and is expected to face criminal charges including sexual exploitation of a minor and disseminating indecent material to a minor. She appeared in court this week and pleaded not guilty before she was released on bond.

The school’s head issued a statement confirming that its “top priorities” involve preserving the safety of students.

“Our policies and procedures require that professional boundaries be maintained at all times between any adult in our community, and our students, and all school staff are trained concerning these limits, as well as about their obligations as mandated reporters,” Twiladawn Perry said.

Another school official expressed “confusion” and “a lot of disbelief” among staff upon hearing the claims.

“We tell all of our teachers, faculty, staff, administration, everybody to maintain professional relationships with students even up into the social media realm,” Javin Leonard said. “We highly discourage friending students and the like.”

The school confirmed Lahiri has been fired. Media reports describe her as married with two children.

[Featured image: Anita Lahiri, Facebook]