Photo: Tatsiana Volkava / Moment / Getty Images
A librarian at Lincoln Elementary Community School in Schenectady has resigned following allegations of stepping on an eight-year-old special needs student. The incident reportedly occurred while the child was face down on a classroom floor. The school board accepted the librarian's resignation, effective March 9.
The child's mother, Ashley Rivera, learned of the incident through a paraprofessional at the school who witnessed it and sent her a photo. Rivera expressed her concerns at a school board meeting, stating, "I was not called, I was not notified, and I was not given an explanation either." She emphasized the importance of transparency in such situations.
The incident sparked outrage in the community after Rivera posted the photo on social media. Despite the public outcry, no criminal charges will be filed against the librarian. Schenectady Police Chief Eric Clifford stated that although the photo appeared concerning, the investigation concluded no crime was committed. Witnesses described the child as being "happy and OK" after the incident.
In response to the incident, Superintendent Carlos Cotto Jr. stated that the district is reinforcing protocols to ensure timely communication with families and prevent similar occurrences in the future. Board member Vivian Parsons apologized to Rivera, saying, "I am deeply and truly sorry that this happened to your baby; it never should have happened."