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 »
“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 »
The SHIFT Chronicles is a new monthly feature dedicated to amplifying student voices, where those most impacted by the public education system share their thoughts, reflections, and experiences. In collaboration with FaithBridge SHIFT fellows, these commentaries offer a genuine glimpse into the challenges students are facing within our city’s schools.
SHIFT Chronicles: Amplifying Denver student voice Read More »
Kristen Fry, who brought the suit, was accused in August 2023 of using a racial slur and of assault against a Black community activist and political consultant, Hashim Coates, that led to a rush to judgment by the school board to cast Fry as racist. She was later exonerated by a video of the incident that DPS withheld until subpoenaed by her attorneys.
DPS board, leaders’ rush to judgment sparks federal lawsuit Read More »
It is true that DPS students and subgroups of students (low-income students and kids of color) outpaced the state on growth measures in many areas. But at the rate that many DPS students are growing, they will never reach grade-level proficiency. That has profound implications for their futures, and is hardly cause for celebration.
DPS spins test results, but truth is plain to see Read More »
We have an opportunity in Denver to lead the way in how to equip students with these vital skills; to be the standard of financial education and cultural awareness in the state and beyond. However, for this to be possible, we need to create the systems and structures in DPS to last beyond any administrative changes, personnel movement and alumni who graduate from Denver high schools.
