IPS: Child seduction allegations against counselor are ‘unsettling’
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — An Indianapolis Public Schools counselor facing preliminary charges of child seduction was “immediately suspended once the district was initially notified of the allegations,” IPS said in a statement Tuesday.
IPS also said counselor Shana Taylor is being recommended for termination.
“These allegations are indeed unsettling, yet we believe this matter does not reflect the integrity of our talented educators,” IPS said. “While we worked to immediately protect our students, this issue provides an opportunity for us to remind employees of protocols and expectations.”
The school district said it become aware of inappropriate contact between Taylor and a 17-year-old male student on Feb. 17. The next morning, Taylor was placed on suspension and banned from school property, IPS said.
“In the coming weeks, IPS will collaborate with community partners to conduct refresher training sessions for school personnel to ensure districtwide expectations are understood and adhered to, without exception or delay,” the school district said in a statement Tuesday.
The 37-year-old counselor was arrested in Ellettsville Thursday night.
IMPD said the investigation began on Tuesday with a complaint from the Department of Child Services.
Taylor was hired by IPS in March of 2015, according to school officials. She reportedly worked with troubled kids.
She’s scheduled to appear in court Wednesday at 1 p.m.
