Teacher accused of sexual assault out on bail

A sign for George McDougall High School in Airdrie, Alta. is seen.

RCMP has charged a teacher at an Airdrie high school with sexual assault and sexual exploitation.

The accused is a 35-year-old teacher at George McDougall High School and police say the victim is a 17-year-old female student.

Court documents obtained by CTV News allege that John Christopher Miller had a sexual relationship with a student that lasted from July to October of this year.

RCMP say that a third party became suspicious of the pair's relationship and filed a complaint which prompted the investigation.

Miller is married with school age children of his own and is a popular teacher at the school.

"He is charged with the sexual exploitation because there is that position of trust or authority between the victim and the accused," said RCMP Insp. Tony Hamori.

Miller appeared in an Airdrie court on Thursday morning to answer to the charges and was granted bail.

A letter from the principal was posted on the school's website informing parents about the charges.

The school has brought in counselors to support students and staff.

Miller must abide by a number of conditions and will be back in court on November 8.