By Hailey Higgins, Local News 8 Reporter

BONNEVILLE COUNTY - A Sandcreek Middle School teacher has been charged with five counts of lewd conduct with a child under 16.

Kari Atkinson, 28, of Idaho Falls, a physical education teacher at Sandcreek Middle School, was read the charges in court Wednesday afternoon.

The Bonneville County Sheriff's Office identified the victim as a 14-year-old student. They believe Atkinson had sexual encounters with the boy and say they do not think there are other victims.

Each count carries a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Atkinson has been ordered by Judge Linda Cook to stay away from children except for her own two children.

As per policy, the Bonneville School District has placed Atkinson on paid leave until the investigation has ended.

She will be back in court Wednesday, Sept. 16, for a preliminary hearing.