RCMP have charged a Cleardale woman after an investigation into physical discipline at a private school uncovered the same practice at two other schools in the region.
Fort Vermilion RCMP received a report on May 20, 2026, from a parent who said their child was disciplined with a belt at a private school.
The child had bruising and red marks across his thigh, RCMP said.
Western Alberta District’s general investigation section took over the case. Investigators, assisted by Fort Vermilion RCMP, executed a search warrant at the school.
Police seized a machine belt and related documents.
The investigation found that Blumenort Mennonite School, Wilson Prairie Mennonite School and Tompkins Mennonite School all permitted use of the strap on students, RCMP said.
The practice was outlined in a collective constitution given to and signed by parents, according to police.
Police also said the educators at the three schools are not accredited teachers. Under the law, they are considered adults supervising children.
Eva Bueckert, 37, of Cleardale, was charged with assault with a weapon.
She is scheduled to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Vermilion on Aug. 11, 2026.
The charge has not been proven in court.
“We want the public to understand that these forms of corporal punishments are criminal offences and will be treated as such,” said Cpl. Scott Coleman of Western Alberta District’s general investigation section.
“We have made Alberta’s Ministry of Education and Childcare aware of this investigation in order to prevent further harm to children,” said Coleman.
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