The principal of the prestigious Denver School of the Arts announced he will retire at the end of this school year.
William Kohut leaves after 10 years at the helm. He has been with Denver Public Schools for 33 of his 36 years in education.
“To lead an arts-focused institution has been the highlight of my career,” Kohut wrote in a letter sent Monday to DSA community members. “It is time for another leader to take the brush and palette and paint their colors, texture, and design onto this amazing canvas we call Denver School of the Arts.”
Kohut’s retirement announcement comes after a turbulent year for the school. There were investigations into both its vaunted dance program and the vocal program.
Allegations of emotional abuse prompted the resignation of two longtime dance teachers following a five-month district investigation. The two vocal teachers initially returned to the school but later left after a CPR News report led to a second district investigation into accusations of discrimination, harassment and retaliation.
District officials said Kohut’s dedication and commitment has ensured the school serves as a national model for arts education.
