Tribe's Education Division Enforces 'Zero-Tolerance' Policy

Akwesasne, NY — The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Education Division terminated two employees from the Early Childhood Development Program in May 2016 following an internal program investigation focused on child endangerment concerns. Following the terminations, the concerns and evidence were immediately turned over to the Tribal Police Department.

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, the Education Division and the staff of the Early Childhood Development Program places the personal safety of our children as the highest priority. In doing so, appreciation is extended to the ECDP staff members who reported this unfortunate incident by filing a written complaint.

The Education Division reassures parents, guardians and community members that the Early Childhood Development Program has procedures in place to ensure a safe learning environment. These measures do not tolerate ANY action that is detrimental to the safety of our community’s children.

Further steps include a meeting that will be held with ECDP staff this week to discuss internal processes and existing measures to provide a safe school environment. It will be followed by a parent meeting on Thursday, July 14th at 5:15 p.m. to discuss concerns and share efforts being undertaken to protect our children. Both meetings will take place at the ECDP facility located behind the Akwesasne Library.

The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, the Education Division and the staff of the Early Childhood Development Program continue to strive and educate our children in the most respectful, nurturing and safe way that we can.