Results of a special investigation by the Kirkwood Institute and TEF Iowa revealed a disturbing detail about how the Des Moines Public School District has abused its ability to deny students open enrollment based on a voluntary diversity plan.
The report shows that Des Moines Public Schools denied a student’s request for open enrollment after her parents said she was raped.
Records show:
“Student was raped and no longer feels safe in the school because the accused follows her around school.
“In May the family told North (the student) was assaulted by a child but would not give any details and stated that the student could not be asked about it because of the police involvement. They did not give a case number or any other details. Staff advised her teachers to be on the lookout for any behaviors. DMPS is unaware of the specifics but we can accommodate (the student) at another high school if she no longer feels safe at North.”
This revelation angered Republican lawmakers, including State Sen. Brad Zaun.
“Des Moines Public Schools denied a young lady who was raped open enrollment and offered to move them to another high school in the Des Moines Public School District,” Zaun said. “When Sen. (Amy) Sinclair was telling all this, you could hear a pin drop. Did you just hear what the Des Moines Public Schools did? They denied a young lady who was raped open enrollment request.
“It disgusts me. I cannot believe this happened. I am suggesting to the residents of Des Moines to demand a resignation of their superintendent, Thomas Ahart. The school board needs to be replaced. The only way you can replace them is at the ballot box.
“I have never been so mad. It disgusts me. Think about this. Citizens of Des Moines, you need to take back your school district.”
