We the parents of Denver Language School children are gravely concerned about the safety and security of our children at Denver Language School. In light of recent events we are concerned over what we see as lack of leadership from the administration in the communications and implementation of school policies in support of the mission statement and objectives of the school. The current administration structure is not functioning in its most fundamental duty as a school, which is to create a safe environment, where children can learn. We realize that the board is going through a principal search, however recent events have underscored the need for more immediate measures and involvement from the board to insure the school provides a safe and supportive environment, that promotes the learning and development of our children. As parents, we ask the board to consider the following, and commit to working with the Administration, Parents and Teachers to bring effective, immediate change to the day-to-day operation of the school:

· One person needs to be at DLS full time (7:30 to 4:00) and responsible and empowered to make administrative decisions, so parents, teachers and students know who is in charge.

· There needs to be supervision on the playground during every recess, before school, after school and at lunch and children should not be left unsupervised in classrooms.

· The board and interim administration need to agree on the policies and procedures set forth in the school charter and meet with teachers and staff and explain what is acceptable behavior for adults and what is not when dealing with children,and what the protocols should be in the event there are disciplinary or corrective actions required.

· We ask the Board to reach out to thebroaderDPSadministrationthat oversees charter schools and asks forsupport.In this interim period, additional governance and support could help our administration until the next Principal is hired. DPS will not intervene in Charter School business without being invited.

DLS is in crisis right now. We love our school and we love the philosophy behind DLS, we want to see this school not only survive but thrive. Yet the Parents have observed changes that question whether the Administration can effectively provide an environment that matches that philosophy. At the core, if the school does not actively promote, support and implement policies commensurate with our school’s code of conduct and basic mission, it has failed in the most fundamental manner. All parties have an interest and duty to work together, to ensure unsettled leadership does not result in an environment, that risks the fundamental promise we collective make to our children.