Denver board held behind-the-scenes talks on Marrero’s contract

The Denver school board may have run afoul of Colorado’s open meetings law by channeling discussions about Superintendent Alex Marrero’s contract extension through the district’s attorney and a secret, two-member committee, according to experts.

Among those raising concerns is Steve Zansberg, a First Amendment attorney who represents The Denver Gazette and several other media organizations.

The Denver school board has long faced criticism for operating behind closed doors, which board members have brushed aside, insisting they operate transparently.

In extending Marrero’s contract, the board sidestepped open debate in favor of private channels that shielded Marrero — and the district’s elected leaders — from public scrutiny.

“They play all these games to avoid public scrutiny,” said