|
May 22, 2023
Dear Beacon Families,
We hope this message finds you well. We wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we have been on together over the past decade and, more specifically, the last few months. It has been a truly transformative experience, and we are grateful for the support and involvement of our community every step of the way.
In 2012, we embarked on the creation of the Beacon Schools model, a groundbreaking approach to education that aimed to provide our students with the best possible preparation for their future success. Through our innovative programs, including blended learning, enrichments, character development, and critical thinking, we have been able to deliver a personalized learning experience that has garnered national recognition.
The positive impact we have had on our student's academic growth and the multitude of opportunities we have offered them has led to a significant increase in demand for our innovation schools (GBMS & KBMS). We take great pride in what we have achieved so far and are excited to build upon our successes to better serve the students and families in Southwest and Southeast Denver.
Our success has always been rooted in listening to and responding to the voices of the communities we serve. This is why, every three years, we revisit and renew our innovation plans, ensuring that we stay aligned with the needs and aspirations of our students, parents, and educators. Currently, we are in the process of revising our innovation plans for Grant Beacon (GBMS), and Kepner Beacon (KBMS).
In light of the recent decision by the DPS Board of Education, we are committed to working with our dedicated teachers, staff, and DPS to ensure that our schools continue to provide the same level of support and programming to our students. There will be no immediate effect on our schools or our ability to serve our students and families.
The Beacon Innovation Renewal Committee, consisting of teachers, parents, a Beacon board member, and community members, carefully reviewed the revised plans. This committee was tasked with assessing our current innovation plans and making necessary adjustments based on the feedback received from our families, staff, and from DPS, including transitioning from an Innovation Zone back to an Innovation Management Organization (IMO). The Beacon IMO provides a distinctive approach to school governance aimed at replicating the high-performing Grant Beacon Middle School, allowing the Beacon IMO to exercise greater autonomy over school-based decisions and to share resources across campuses. Our Beacon Zone Board will continue to support the schools by providing expertise, resources, and advocacy in an advisory capacity, but as required by the DPS Board of Education, we have removed references to the Zone.
Finally, we look forward to closing out the school year by celebrating our students and transitioning to the next grade level. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to working together to shape a brighter future for our students.
Warm regards,
| 
