A former Omaha middle school teacher accused of molesting students has been found guilty of two charges, but acquitted of one child abuse and two sexual assault counts.

Prosecutors argued that 36-year-old Shad Knutson molested or had inappropriate relationships with girls ages 13 to 15 from 2008 through 2010 while a social studies teacher at Nathan Hale Magnet Middle School. He was charged with five felony counts, including sexual assault of a child.

On Friday, a Douglas County jury found Knutson guilty of child abuse and using a cellphone to entice a child. Evidence showed Knutson had exchanged some 27,000 messages and calls with one girl. He was acquitted of counts involving three other girls.

Knutson faces up to 55 years in prison when he's sentenced May 23.