The thing is, if she had started a relationship with him now it wouldn't be a big deal. They might get a few frowns or comments from people but that happens whenever there is a significant age difference.
However, nowhere is it acceptable to have a relationship like that with a student. I don't see how it's possible for her to mentally justify that. She had to have ripped apart her family, that boy, and his family. I understand this happens all the time, but how can an adult woman not see something wrong when it is a 14 year old student? Granted they can do whatever they want now, but that whole situation must have done a number on that boy. I think Undiscovered is right, he probably is seeing it as different than it was.
And hang on, when did you win the discus?