[Clem1640]

I concur with you that sexual abuse, especially sexual abuse by an adult towards a child, is reprehensible. It should not be tolerated.

Team 1640 has been a coed team since its inception. Mentors are both men and women. About half of our mentors are parents of students participating on the team. We do watch what happens during meetings and events.

I agree than an awareness of the laws is this area is entirely appropriate.

I am not sure that the use of the word "epidemic" is appropriate. The numbers you present are high, but I don't know the context. I am not a teacher. I do work for a company in which sexual abuse is not tolerated. Nor does it exist as far as I am able to see. I may be very, very naïve, but sexual abuse seems to be exceptional in the professional world within which I travel and live.

I've put three daughters through FRC. I am sensitive to your concerns. I have not observed the problems.