Frank Laine Hall, 36, is charged with 16 counts of aggravated sexual abuse of a child, first-degree felonies carrying potential prison terms of six, 10 or 15 years to life.

The abuse largely consisted of Hall putting his hand down the back of first-grader's pants to touch their buttocks, according to the charges.

He also allegedly inserted his finger into the private area of at least one victim.

Last year, Hall - a 10-year veteran of teaching - was among the winners of the Huntsman Awards for Excellence in Education.

Jordan School District officials said Hall, whose alleged crimes began in July 2005, was no longer an employee as of April 10.

Arrested and held at the Salt Lake County jail in lieu of $500,000, Hall posted bail and was released earlier this week.

- Stephen Hunt