I am, and will forever be, a survivor of sexual assault at the hands of a teacher who manipulated and abused me over the course of two traumatic years. This teacher took advantage of me, filming the sickening acts and forcing me to watch it. He stole far more than my innocence, he left a lasting scar on my self-esteem. Today, this man walks free, protected by lenient laws and a system that fails to properly account for his vile act.

Unfortunately, my heartbreaking story isn't unique. According to the U.S. Department of Education, nearly one in 10 students is a victim of some form of sexual misconduct by an educator, a fact illustrating the epidemic proportions of this issue (U.S. Department of Education, 2017).

Protect our children - demand legislative change that requires all educators convicted of a sex crime to register as sex offenders. This is not just about punishment for the offenders, but protection for the innocent lives they might otherwise come into contact with.

We can no longer afford to pay the cost of leniency in sexual misconduct cases involving teachers, a price measured in the lifelong trauma of survivors. Victims must not carry the burden of their abusers' crimes. Help send the message that the wellbeing of our children is non-negotiable.

Join this crucial fight for justice and safety. Sign the petition today.