by Chris Peterson
The recent charges against Chad Kendall, former theatre and choir teacher at Archbishop Hoban High School in Akron, Ohio, are deeply disturbing. Kendall faces multiple counts of sexual battery involving former students aged 16 and 17, as well as an earlier assault charge stemming from an incident on the school stage where he allegedly physically assaulted a female student during rehearsal. These are not just legal terms or headlines—they represent serious violations that have shattered the lives of young people and betrayed the trust placed in educators.
Theatre programs are meant to be safe havens where students explore creativity, build confidence, and learn the value of collaboration and respect. When a teacher abuses that trust, the damage extends far beyond the individual victims. It shakes the entire community and undermines the very foundation of arts education.
The allegations against Kendall highlight a troubling dynamic all too common in education: the exploitation of power imbalances. An adult entrusted with guidance and mentorship holds a position of influence that can easily be abused if safeguards are not strong enough. The fact that one of the alleged assaults occurred on stage, a public space meant to showcase talent and teamwork, makes the betrayal all the more heartbreaking.
Sadly, this case is not unique. This seems to happen every school year. Several theatre educators have recently been charged with misconduct and other serious crimes, from Minnesota to Missouri and Indiana. Each case reveals patterns of trust betrayed and vulnerable students harmed. These incidents are a stark reminder that current protections often fall short.
Beyond the legal implications, these cases have a ripple effect on the students, families, and entire communities involved. Victims may carry trauma that affects their confidence, relationships, and even their love for the art form itself. Schools lose the faith of parents and students, and the broader theatre community faces scrutiny and mistrust. It is a wound that requires care, attention, and action.
Schools and arts programs must do more than react after the fact. We need rigorous background checks for every educator. Mandatory training on professional boundaries and power dynamics is essential. Clear, accessible channels must be in place so students can report concerns without fear of retaliation. Above all, we must foster a culture that puts transparency, accountability, and student safety front and center.
It is also critical to involve students directly in these conversations. Empowering young people with education about their rights and boundaries creates a more informed community that can recognize and resist inappropriate behavior. Peer support systems, anonymous reporting tools, and regular check-ins can all help build an environment where abuse is less likely to go unnoticed or unchallenged.
The severity of these allegations demands a zero-tolerance approach. The combination of student vulnerability and teacher authority makes these actions unforgivable. The trauma inflicted will echo for years to come. Preventing abuse is a collective responsibility for every school, every program, and every community.
As the legal process unfolds in the Kendall case, the theatre community and school leaders cannot lose focus. Protecting students and supporting survivors must be our highest priority. Theatre has the power to transform and heal, but only if it remains a sanctuary free from fear and exploitation.
We owe every student stepping onto a stage more than just applause. We owe them safety, respect, and trust. It is time for educators, administrators, parents, and students to come together and demand the reforms needed to safeguard our arts programs. Let this moment be a catalyst for lasting change. Our students deserve nothing less.
