We knew the methods we were using to deal with poor attendance weren’t working. We theorized that part of the solution might not look linear. We had to put ourselves in the shoes of our parents and ask ourselves new questions. Why, on the hardest days and in the hardest situations, might I move mountains to get my student to school? And when might I not?
Engaging parents in the absenteeism conversation Read More »
A year after an election that brought in three new Denver school board members, some Denverites are frustrated that little, if anything has changed. Here are some places to look for hopeful signs while we await the November 2025 election.
A year in, new Denver school board members’ impact has been incremental Read More »
On paper, enrollment zones may seem like a simple solution to the challenges of school choice and declining enrollment. In practice, however, they often fail to deliver on their promises and, in many cases, do more harm than good
Why enrollment zones should not be part of Denver’s school closure plan Read More »
“Ultimately, the lessons I have learned about leadership will guide me as I continue to contribute everything I can to my community and inspire others to do the same.”
SHIFT Chrionicles: What makes a great leader? Read More »
On Monday night, with zero debate, the DPS board approved a $17,326 bonus for Superintendent Alex Marrero – a curious move just days before voters weigh in on a billion-dollar bond package, while negotiations with the teachers union remain unresolved.
Marrero bonus, board silence are slaps in the face to Denver teachers Read More »
From Brian Eschbacher: My goal with this post is to assert a set of facts and opportunities in the hopes it reduces finger-pointing and aligns us all towards making school consolidation decisions as supportive as possible for our students and community. I served as the Executive Director of Planning & Enrollment for DPS from 2011 through 2018, and have created long-term enrollment plans and analyses in more than 20 cities across the country since leaving DPS in 2018.
Denver school consolidation: Facts and opportunities, not blame Read More »
When a system doesn’t work, there will always be results that are completely avoidable but inevitable because that’s what happens in broken systems.
School closure is the byproduct. Trust is the root problem Read More »
As someone who teaches U.S. history and emphasizes how the Constitution is a living document, it’s vital that my students understand the election process and how to participate in a way that feels encouraging.
Teaching tomorrow’s voters, today Read More »
“I don’t believe schools are just places for learning. They’re safe havens for many students who need a break from toxic households or just serve as a place where they can be themselves. A supportive community within a school can make all the difference.”
SHIFT Chronicles: What makes a quality school? Read More »
We’ve been sold college as the only path to social and economic mobility, but when we arrive, we don’t have the tools and knowledge to best navigate it. Was it more important to simply get us to college and not help position us in ways that we could really thrive when we got there?
Building a future where DPS students don’t just survive; they thrive Read More »
