EDUCATION Commissioner Dr. Alfred B. Ada, who is facing sexual harassment allegations, issued the following statement on Tuesday, Aug. 29:
“I have devoted nearly 30 years of my professional life to serving [the Public School System] with the last 3.5 years in the role of PSS Commissioner. My recent decision to step down as commissioner was driven by health concerns, a decision I made after much reflection and consideration for my well-being.
“I am aware of the media inquiries regarding a sexual harassment grievance filed against me. It’s crucial to set the record straight: there is a pending grievance from one employee. You may verify that with PSS. I categorically deny these allegations. However, I believe in the importance of the confidentiality of such proceedings and, out of respect for the process, I will not comment further on the matter.
“In leadership roles, especially one as significant as that of the PSS Commissioner, addressing grievances is an unfortunate reality. Over the years, I have faced and resolved numerous challenges governing my position. These challenges, while inherent to the role, can be taxing on an individual.
“My track record over the past few decades stands as a testament to my dedication, integrity, and commitment. I kindly ask the media and the public to respect my privacy during this time and to refrain from speculation.
“I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve and for the continued support from many of you.”
In a separate statement, attorney Charity R. Hodson said:
“I can confirm that in November 2022, my office, on behalf of Dr. Bobby Cruz, filed a complaint with the CNMI Board of Education based on sexual harassment and other unprofessional conduct by Alfred Ada over the last several years. The grievance requested Ada’s removal as Commissioner. Ada was not placed on administrative leave nor was he removed. The grievance was scheduled for a hearing on July 18, 2023. Several witnesses were expected to testify publicly regarding sexual harassment inflicted on them by Ada at PSS. Ada requested for the hearing not to go forward on procedural grounds. The hearing was cancelled, and the Board has not called for it to be rescheduled. The grievance is still pending in front of the Board of Education.”
Cruz is the current head of PSS’s mental health program.
In a statement, BOE legal counsel Tiberius Mocanu said:
“The BOE hired an outside seasoned and knowledgeable hearing officer with a background in labor law to adjudicate a grievance that was filed against Dr. Ada. The persons involved in the grievance are free to talk about the particulars if they so choose but PSS is bound by confidentiality which it takes seriously. The status of the grievance will be determined by the same hearing officer and they will have discretion as to what occurs to it in light of the COE’s resignation.”
Rep. Manny Gregory Tenorio Castro, who chairs the House Committee on Education, on Tuesday said:
“Given my close relation to both Dr. Ada and Dr. Cruz, I was made aware of the allegations prior to its public release. Considering the situation, the Board of Education…is the appropriate body to conduct the investigation, or in other cases, an independent investigator sanctioned by the BOE. I am confident that the BOE will do its due diligence in investigating and addressing this issue.
“This is an internal human resources matter, and I will not comment further on the allegations at this time. However, I want to assure the public that the House Committee on Education is committed to ensuring that all public-school employees are treated with dignity and respect.
“I am confident that the BOE will take the appropriate steps to ensure that a thorough and impartial investigation is conducted. I will continue to monitor this situation closely and I will provide updates as they become available.”
Alfred Ada
