Spindrift School of Performing Arts exists to serve our community: every child, every family, and every artist who walks through our doors. It is our mission to provide a caring, safe space for students to learn, develop, and grow as performing artists. We require that every member of our team uphold this commitment.
Spindrift requires all staff to comply with mandated reporting laws. There is no gray area. Under California Penal Code §11166, anyone designated as a mandated reporter is legally required to report suspected abuse immediately. You do not delay. You do not investigate. You do not wait for more information. You report, and you allow trained professionals to handle the matter to ensure neutrality and legal compliance.
This legal duty applies regardless of where the abuse occurred, whether the conduct was considered consensual, and regardless of who else may have known. It also does not matter whether the information came directly from a child or secondhand. Once you know, you report. The duty to report is absolute.
The Board of Directors became aware of a situation involving suspected abuse that was not reported by anyone. Upon learning this, the Board took immediate action. A report was filed, and this is now an active police investigation. We are cooperating fully with authorities. The following steps were taken by the Board:
- The staff member in question was immediately removed from the school.
- The Board promptly filed a mandated report with the appropriate authorities and has provided follow-up information as requested.
- An outside law firm was engaged to conduct a thorough and impartial review, and three independent legal opinions were obtained before any leadership changes were made.
We understand that some people want more details. From the outset, the Board has handled this matter with discretion to protect the privacy of the minor involved and the dignity of all parties. We are not at liberty to disclose specific information involving a child or speak about personnel matters, and we will not comment on an ongoing police investigation.
We are aware that some individuals are attempting to shift blame toward children or other parents, or are suggesting the timing of the disclosure somehow reduces its seriousness. That is not how the law works. As a mandated reporter, once you are aware, you act. You do not shift responsibility. You do not point fingers. And you do not fail to report.
The Board has spent many hours consulting with law enforcement and legal professionals and has followed their guidance at every step. While these actions may seem abrupt or harsh to some, they were necessary, appropriate, and legally required.
Now, we are focused on what matters most: the safety of our students, the well-being of our families, and the strength of our community.
Spindrift is a collective of passionate teachers, staff, and families who believe in the power of the performing arts to uplift and empower young people. Our Board of Directors remains fully engaged in guiding the school through this transition and ensuring our values are upheld.
Classes are continuing. Rehearsals are moving forward. The shows will go on. We remain committed to our mission:
To train and inspire students of all ages in the performing arts while instilling confidence, self-discipline, creativity, and respect for others.
