Statement on arrest of former school bus driver

CONCORD, NH — The following is a statement from Commissioner Frank Edelblut: 

“The New Hampshire Department of Education was made aware of the initial allegations against Virene Poliquin, as well as the current charges that have been brought forward by the Hudson Police Department. Pursuant to state statute, NHED conducted a criminal history records check on this individual on Nov. 22, 2022, at which time there were no Section V violations and bus driver clearance was subsequently issued. The Department’s top priority is to ensure the safety of children, and therefore takes all allegations of misconduct seriously. We are deeply saddened and our hearts go out to the students, families and Hudson community impacted by these alleged acts.”