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An arts school where Epstein allegedly preyed on students reveals decades of abuse
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- Paul Busch, a former Interlochen Center for the Arts student, publicly shared his experience of sexual abuse by ballet teacher Thomas Clower in 2005, revealing a broader pattern of abuse at the school spanning decades.
- An independent report uncovered around 70 allegations against nearly 50 adults from the 1950s to the 2010s, highlighting systemic issues such as lack of oversight and vulnerability of students due to isolation and limited family contact.
- Clower pleaded guilty to attempted fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct, serving 90 days in jail, yet continued teaching dance in Texas until recently; his name has been removed from current teaching rosters following public exposure.
- Busch described inadequate support from Interlochen after the abuse, including feelings of isolation and shame, and criticized the school’s response as insufficient despite new safety measures and counseling resources.
- The investigation has prompted calls for accountability and cultural change at Interlochen, with some alumni seeking justice and systemic reforms to protect current and future students.
