Facing New Allegations, Denver School Of The Arts Vocal Instructors Placed On Leave

Hart Van Denburg/CPR News

New complaints have been filed with Denver Public Schools in the wake of a CPR News investigation into allegations of abusive teacher behavior at Denver School of the Arts. Vocal instructors Robert Styron and Scott Shively have again been placed on administrative leave.

Parents were informed of the move in a letter by principal William Kohut.

In a statement, district officials say they have received additional allegations that were not previously raised and are reviewing them “to determine next steps.”

“Nothing is more important than the health, safety and well-being of our students, and we’re identifying additional supports for students and the DSA school community,” the statement read.

DPS officials point out that administrative leave doesn’t imply an allegation is founded. The district also reiterated that the school does not tolerate retaliation against students or families who report concerns.

Styron and Shively were originally placed on administrative leave earlier in January after allegations of discrimination, harassment and retaliation — particularly against students with emotional or mental disabilities. School officials conducted a short internal investigation and the two teachers returned to their posts. In an earlier interview, Superintendent Tom Boasberg said he didn’t know how widespread the first investigation into the vocal program was beyond the original complainants.

“We attempted to speak to each person who raised concerns,” he said. “In some cases folks were willing to talk about those concerns and some cases they were not.”

Earlier: Vocal Teachers Return To Denver School Of The Arts After Investigation