Hooksett Elementary School Aide Arrested on Child Abuse Image Charges

HOOKSETT — Families at Hooksett Memorial School, an elementary school serving local children, were informed this week that a contracted paraprofessional has been arrested on 12 counts of possessing child sexual abuse images.

Superintendent William J. Rearick told parents in a letter Monday that Henry Clark, employed through a staffing agency since October 2024, was taken into custody on Sept. 8 following a joint investigation by Manchester and Hooksett police. Clark had not worked with students since June, when he began medical leave.

“The district notified the staffing agency employing the individual of the charges and that their employee will not be allowed back on school property and cannot provide any future services to the district,” Rearick wrote.

Rearick said there is no evidence that students, staff, or school property were involved, and emphasized Clark had no access to district-issued technology. School counselors have been made available to support families.

The case arrives at a time when more parents are reassessing their trust in the public school system. New Hampshire’s expanded Education Freedom Account program, which allows families to use state funds for private school tuition, homeschooling, or other alternatives, has seen rapid growth in recent months. Supporters of the EFA system argue that cases like the Hooksett arrest reinforce the desire for more educational options, particularly for younger children.

State data show enrollment in EFAs has more than doubled since eligibility was broadened earlier this year. Critics, including teachers unions, argue the expansion diverts resources from public schools, but parent interest has continued to climb.

Rearick acknowledged the disturbing nature of the allegations in his letter. “The safety and well-being of our students is our highest priority,” he wrote, promising close cooperation with law enforcement.

Police have not released additional details about Clark’s case.