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Indian Creek School Board of Trustees: Complicity or Lack of Integrity?

As troubling allegations continue to surface about the administration of Indian Creek School (ICS), many are left wondering where the school's leadership stands. The spotlight has, rightfully, been on Booth Kyle, the Head of School, and his administration, who have been accused of retaliatory actions, negligence, and fostering an unsafe environment for students. But beyond Kyle and the administration, there is another critical group that has remained conspicuously silent: the ICS Board of Trustees. 

Comprised of professionals from various industries, this group has the responsibility to oversee the school's operations, ensure ethical governance, and safeguard the institution’s reputation. Yet, their absence in addressing these allegations raises pressing questions about their involvement or, at the very least, their accountability.

Where Is the Leadership?

Julius Smith '09, Chair, and the other members of the board hold the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that ICS operates with transparency, fairness, and ethical standards. The board is entrusted with the welfare of the students and families who rely on the school for a safe and nurturing educational environment. But as stories of misconduct, negligence, and retaliation pile up, the silence from the trustees becomes more alarming by the day. 

Alex Almy '10, a younger member of the board, might have expected to be part of an institution that lives up to its mission of excellence. Frank Chambers, Devon Clouse, and Amy Coleman '93, Ex Officio, like others on the board, should have taken proactive steps to address the swirling concerns around the school. Yet, despite their professional backgrounds, there seems to be a collective avoidance of action.

Complicity or Willful Ignorance?

Perhaps the most glaring question is whether the board members are complicit in the wrongdoings at ICS, or if they are simply turning a blind eye. 

Booth Kyle, as the Head of School, occupies a unique position as both an administrator and a member of the board. His dual role complicates the power dynamics, making it difficult to determine whether the board is genuinely independent or if they are merely a rubber stamp for Kyle’s decisions.  
Russell Fugett, Noemí Enchautegui de Jesus, John DePaola, and other trustees may hold prestigious titles in their day jobs, but how do those leadership qualities translate when it comes to overseeing the operations of ICS? Are they actively participating in governance, or have they taken a backseat, allowing the administration to operate unchecked?

The Lack of Integrity at the Top

The lack of action on the part of the trustees calls into question the very integrity of the leadership at ICS. Tanya Mathias, Helen Prevas '99, Nick Larkin, and Robert Pascal '96, along with the rest of the board, are charged with ensuring that ICS upholds its values. Yet, the evidence suggests otherwise. 

As allegations of retaliation, including targeting students and families who have raised valid concerns, and reports of negligence, such as the operation of unlicensed daycare facilities and employing unqualified bus drivers, become public, the trustees have remained silent. Adam Shampaine '93, Carrie (Marbury) Simmons '97, and Kevin Tator all share a responsibility to the school's community, yet where is their voice in ensuring accountability?

Failure to Act in the Face of Misconduct

The failure of the ICS Board of Trustees to act raises serious concerns about their ability to govern effectively. **Lynne Sullivan, Derek Krein, and Adam Winer are all part of this esteemed group, but have they used their positions to question the administration's handling of complaints or the reported retaliatory actions against students and staff?

The board’s silence suggests that they are either unaware of the severity of the situation or are deliberately avoiding their responsibilities. But ignorance is no excuse, especially when children's welfare is at stake. The school's administrative actions have harmed students, violated trust, and tarnished the institution’s reputation.

What’s Next?

The trustees must now decide whether they will continue to turn a blind eye to the actions of Booth Kyle and his administration, or whether they will step up to the plate and take responsibility for the school’s governance. Their positions demand more than just serving in name—they require active participation, ethical oversight, and a willingness to hold the administration accountable.

The students, families, and staff of Indian Creek School deserve answers. They deserve a board that will act with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to justice. The time for silence is over. The Board of Trustees must now ask themselves: Are they complicit in the administration’s wrongdoings, or will they stand up and fulfill their duties to the school and its community?

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