Spring | Issue 44 | Date: April 18, 2024

Funding Great Schools. Rooted in Community.

Above: Students in the classroom at RiseUp Community School

La Raza Report Amplifies the Lived Experiences of Denver's Latino Community

Denver Public Schools recently released La Raza Report, which spotlights the lived experiences of Latino students, parents and staff in DPS.

This report sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by the Latino community in our schools, providing valuable insights that can help drive positive change. We're encouraged to see DPS creating the Latinx Student Success team to help ensure that every Latino student has the support and resources they need to thrive.

We are committed to closely reviewing the data and findings in the report and also collaborating with the researchers and DPS leadership to ensure that this important information is easily accessible to the community and the recommendations are implemented with strong community partnership. We look forward to working with education partners across the district who can turn this valuable information into actionable steps.

Read the full report and learn more:

Read La Raza Report

CSU's Equine Therapy Provides

Extra Support to Students

"There's just magic that happens here" - CSU Spur staff member

A group of Compass Academy students have been visiting the CSU Spur campus regularly this school year in order to participate in the equine therapy program. The program gives struggling students a chance to make connections and build trust and confidence, providing them with learning opportunities outside the typical classroom setting.

Watch the Compass Academy Feature

DPS SchoolChoice Round 2 is Open!

SchoolChoice Round 2 is for families who did not participate in Round 1 or for those who want to re-examine their school options. Round 2 applications are processed on a first-come first-served basis within admission priority groups, so families should be prepared to submit their applications as soon as possible.

The district’s SchoolChoice webpage has instructions, answers to frequently asked questions, and contact information for where to find support in submitting an application.

And don’t forget to use Mile High School Guide to view and compare school information to help you make your choice.

Engagement Opportunities

Denver Families for Public Schools has several opportunities for community engagement and leadership within Denver’s education system:

Leaders for Education Advocacy Denver (LEAD) builds a bench of diverse, values-aligned education leaders who are interested in learning what it takes to lead or support campaigns for local office. Apply by April 21 to participate in the May 4-5 program.

DPS educators, parents, students, and community members are invited to complete the Kitchen Table Survey. Share how you feel about education in Denver and what issues you want to see prioritized by DPS leadership.

Apply for LEAD 101

Complete the Survey

Making Denver School and District Data More Accessible and Transparent

"Mile High School Guide gives families and caregivers an opportunity to explore schools in and beyond their neighborhoods, leading to better preparation for the annual SchoolChoice process and a deeper understanding of the diverse offerings within Denver's unique family of schools."

Read more in the article written by RootED's own Latia Henderson on page 17 of the Denver Urban Spectrum, as she discusses the history and creation of Mile High School Guide.