Ex-substitute teacher at Taconic Hills CSD arrested for child endangerment

CRARYVILLE, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- A former substitute teacher at Taconic Hills Central School District was arrested by New York State Police on Wednesday, May 7, for an alleged inappropriate contact with a student. According to troopers, Christina Lambert, 41, of Hudson, was charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

Troopers said on April 30, they received a complaint of inappropriate contact between Lambert and a student. Upon an initial investigation, troopers determined Lambert allegedly sent the inappropriate messages to the student through Snapchat.

On Monday, the Taconic Hills CSD Superintendent Lynnette Brunger said the district is fully cooperating with the state police in the investigation.

"As this is an ongoing legal matter and involves personnel issues, we are limited in what we can share publicly. We ask for the community’s understanding that when situations arise involving sensitive or confidential information, we are bound, legally and ethically, to protect the privacy of those involved," Brunger said. "We are fully cooperating with law enforcement authorities as they pursue this matter. In addition, we have supports in place for any students who may be impacted by this incident, including access to counseling and school-based mental health resources."

According to Brunger, when the concerns first came to light, the district began taking the correct steps to handle the situation.

"While we value transparency, there are times when we must withhold certain details to ensure dignity and due process are preserved," Brunger stated. "We want to reassure our families and the broader community that appropriate steps were taken when concerns came to light, and we remain committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment for all with supports in place for those students."

According to state police, Lambert was arraigned in the town of Taghkanic Court and was issued a full stay away order of protection for the victim.

Troopers said this case is an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone with additional information regarding the case are asked to contact state police at (845) 677-7300.