The DPS Board of Education shares this response to the anonymous allegation made against Director Tay Anderson. Denver Public Schools honors and values the voices of individuals who courageously bring forward reports or allegations of sexual misconduct.
At this point, the Board has confirmed that there is no pending criminal investigation or charge. Director Anderson has released a public statement. The Board currently has no information other than what was stated in BLM5280’s post on social media.
These allegations are very serious and the Board will need to ensure that those involved, whether bringing or responding to a concern, are treated fairly and with due process. Sharing an experience of sexual assault is extremely difficult, and we honor the way any individual chooses to share their personal story. If any individual has information they would like to share with the district regarding an experience of sexual assault, it can be shared with our Title IX officer at reportdiscrimination@dpsk12.org.
If the Board receives additional information, it will review new details immediately and consider the appropriate next steps.
The Board has limited authority to take action due to the fact that Mr. Anderson is an elected official and not an employee of Denver Public Schools. The Board cannot remove one of its members as their position as a director is determined by the will of the voters. Similar to the legislature, when elected officials are accused of sexual misconduct, an elected body may consider censure, reprimand, or removal from committees.
We have high expectations of our employees, our students, and our Board colleagues. We are committed to strong preventative measures in our schools to address sexual misconduct. If you need mental health support, please consider these resources:
- Colorado Crisis Services offers multiple walk-in centers around the Denver-metro area and access to a free and confidential Crisis Textline at 1-844-493-8255.
- Mental Health Center of Denver offers resources for students and families.
- Thebluebench.org offers services to victims of sexual assault. 24 hour hotline 303-329-9922 Services in Eng/Span
- Safe to Tell.
Carrie A. Olson, PhD, Board President
Jennifer Bacon, Board Vice President
Angela Cobián, Treasurer
Scott Baldermann, Director
Rev. Brad Laurvick, Director
Barbara O’Brien, PhD, Director