Subject: Important Information Regarding  Music and Band Class

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are writing to address a serious issue within our school community.  On April 30, 2024, the Mill Valley School District was informed of the arrest of  Mill Valley teacher Mr. Darren Smith.  The Marin County Sheriff's Department arrested Mr. Smith on charges of lewd/lascivious acts with child under the age of 14 (PC 288a) and continuous sexual abuse of a child (Penal Code 288.5a).

As soon as the District learned of alleged inappropriate conduct by the teacher, the District immediately informed the Marin County Sheriff’s Department of the allegations and placed the teacher on administrative leave. The district has zero tolerance for any behavior that compromises the safety or well-being of our students. 

Mr. Winfield Atherton has been a substitute music teacher since March 29, 2024 and will continue until the end of the school year.  Mr. Mark Nemoyten will be supporting band.

• Ongoing Investigation: The matter is currently under investigation by the Marin County Sheriff's Department. Due to the sensitivity and ongoing nature of the investigation, there are limited details we can provide at this time. We ask for your understanding and patience as the authorities conduct their work.

We understand that this news may be distressing, and we want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our students are our primary concerns. These values are at the core of our commitment to you and your children.

Here are some important points and resources we would like to share with you:

• Support for Students: We are acutely aware of the impact this situation may have on your child. Our school counselors, school psychologists,  and support staff are available on-site to assist any student who may need help processing this news.   Additionally,  the district has contracted with Care Solace to assist families and staff with locating local mental health resources.   Marin Mobile Crisis Response Team operates 24/7 to ensure individuals can access  mental health support whenever necessary, regardless of the time of day or night.
• Support for Parents: This information may necessitate conversations about appropriate physical boundaries and safety with your children.  We are working with staff from the County of Marin to set up a parent forum to guide you in addressing these issues in an age-appropriate manner.  Although they cannot talk about this specific case, they can respond to your questions and concerns about these types of events.  More information will come through ParentSquare.
• Communication: We will continue to communicate with you as information becomes available and we are allowed. 
• Questions or Concerns: We urge anyone with information related to this case or any concerns to direct their inquiries to the Marin County Sheriff's Department at 415-479-2311.  Should you have any immediate questions or concerns, we encourage you to contact the Superintendent’s Office at 415-389-7705. 

This situation is undoubtedly challenging for our community, and we are committed to navigating it with the utmost respect and concern for the welfare of our students and their families. We appreciate your support and understanding as we work together to address this matter. Thank you for your continued partnership and trust in our school community.

Sincerely,

Dr. Elizabeth Kaufman
Superintendent

ekaufman@mvschools.org
415-634-8085 (cell)
415-389-7705 (office)