Opinion: A Call For Leadership

Reinstate Kurt Dennis As Principal Of McAuliffe

By Eve Chen

For the GPHN

As a Taiwanese-born Australian who migrated to Colorado in 2015, I was confronted with the stark reality of school shootings and the pervasive issue of gun violence. It became my mission to protect my child from these very real dangers.

Since the onset of the pandemic, I made the difficult choice to keep my child at home in remote learning mode, and, truth be told, it was a relief to not have to worry about her safety.

However, as my 11-year-old completed her studies at Denver Online Elementary, I became acutely aware of the limitations this approach placed on her social circle and the missed opportunities for extracurricular activities. In late March, following yet another school shooting, I stumbled upon a 9News interview featuring Principal Kurt Dennis. He fearlessly spoke out against the failed policy that mandated educators to perform pat-downs on at-risk students following the tragic shootings at East.

Principal Dennis’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the students, his strong leadership and vocal advocacy for sensible policies, and his track record of academic excellence promoted me to “choice” my child into McAuliffe. In an era rife with uncertainty and fear, the leadership of this courageous and dedicated educator was a source of immense comfort.

However, the sudden and wrongful termination of Principal Dennis last month shattered my trust in Denver Public Schools. The abrupt removal of an influential figure was not only a tremendous blow to our entire school community but also a clear indication of the flawed leadership on DPS board and district administration. Four months after a preventable shooting, it is clear they have no plan for my child’s safety, let alone the well-rounded education that Kurt has consistently delivered.

The actions and inactions of the DPS board of education and the district administration reflect a severe lack of judgment and a blatant disregard for the best interests of the students they are meant to serve. Swift action was warranted.

With fellow McAuliffe parent and security expert Paul Ballenger’s suggestion and help, we launched a petition the night we learned of Kurt’s termination. The petition collected more than 5,500 signatures in less than five days. That is a clear demonstration of how truly beloved this school leader is — and how many parents out there agree with my assessment of the decision made by the DPS superintendent Alex Marrero.

Our children deserve leaders who will champion their safety and education with unwavering commitment. I refuse to accept anything less, and I will continue to fight for a change that reinstates the trust and security we once felt in our school community.

Eve Chen is a parent of a 6th grader who is about to start at McAuliffe International School. She chose McAuliffe because of the outstanding work Kurt Dennis has accomplished for the school in the last 12 years. She lives in Denver.