The Denver Public Schools Podcast

How can families and educators better support the mental well-being of young people?In this episode of Educa DPS, we explore the realities of teen mental health, the challenges students face every day, and the practical ways adults can help create safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive.The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including stress, anxiety, trauma, social media, identity, belonging, and the importance of listening without judgment. We also discuss how families, schools, and communities can work together to support students and connect them with resources when they need help.In this episode:Understanding teen mental health and mental well-beingCommon stressors facing young people todayThe impact of trauma on studentsSocial media and mental healthWarning signs that a young person may be strugglingThe importance of listening and creating safe spacesSupporting students at home and in schoolMental health resources available in the communityMental well-being is an important part of a student's success, and meaningful support often begins with a simple conversation.🎙️ Educa DPS is part of the DPS Podcast Network and provides information, resources, and conversations that help students, families, educators, and community members succeed.#EducaDPS #MentalHealthAwareness #StudentWellBeing #TeenMentalHealth #DenverPublicSchools #MentalWellness #ParentResources #StudentSuccess #Education

¿Cómo pueden las familias y los educadores apoyar mejor el bienestar mental de los jóvenes?En este episodio de Educa DPS, exploramos las realidades de la salud mental en la adolescencia, los desafíos que enfrentan los estudiantes cada día y las formas prácticas en que los adultos pueden crear entornos seguros y de apoyo donde los jóvenes puedan prosperar.La conversación aborda temas importantes como el estrés, la ansiedad, el trauma, las redes sociales, la identidad, el sentido de pertenencia y la importancia de escuchar sin juzgar. También hablamos sobre cómo las familias, las escuelas y las comunidades pueden trabajar juntas para apoyar a los estudiantes y conectarlos con recursos cuando necesiten ayuda.En este episodio:Qué es la salud mental y el bienestar emocionalLos desafíos y factores de estrés que enfrentan los jóvenes hoy en díaEl impacto del trauma en los estudiantesRedes sociales y salud mentalSeñales de alerta que pueden indicar que un joven necesita apoyoLa importancia de escuchar y crear espacios segurosCómo apoyar a los estudiantes en casa y en la escuelaRecursos de salud mental disponibles para las familiasEl bienestar mental es una parte fundamental del éxito estudiantil, y muchas veces el apoyo comienza con una conversación sencilla.🎙️ Educa DPS forma parte de la Red de Podcasts de DPS y ofrece información, recursos y conversaciones diseñadas para apoyar a estudiantes, familias, educadores y miembros de la comunidad.#EducaDPS #SaludMental #BienestarEmocional #SaludMentalJuvenil #EscuelasPublicasDeDenver #BienestarEstudiantil #RecursosParaFamilias #ExitoEstudiantil #Educacion

Behind the smiles, jokes, and social media posts, many students are silently struggling with their mental well-being.In this episode of Black Voices in Color, student hosts have an honest conversation about stress, anxiety, depression, social media, academic pressure, and the challenges many young people face every day. They share personal experiences, discuss how mental health impacts their lives, and explore the difference between everyday stress and more serious mental health concerns.The conversation also examines how adults can better support young people, the impact of social media on self-esteem, and practical ways students can care for their mental well-being.In this episode: The realities of teen mental health  How stress affects students inside and outside the classroom  Recognizing the signs of anxiety and depression  The impact of social media on self-esteem  Healthy coping strategies and self-care  Why students need trusted adults and support systems  Creating safe spaces for honest conversations Most importantly, this episode reminds students that they are not alone and that asking for support is a sign of strength.🎙️ Black Voices in Color is part of the DPS Podcast Network and is dedicated to elevating the voices, experiences, and perspectives of Black students across Denver Public Schools.#BlackVoicesInColor #MentalHealth #TeenMentalHealth #StudentVoice #DenverPublicSchools #MentalWellBeing #YouthLeadership #StudentStories #MentalHealthAwareness

What role do students and families play in shaping the future of their communities?In this episode of Educa DPS, we explore the importance of civic engagement, voting, and participating in the democratic process. From understanding how local elections work to learning how young people can get involved before they are eligible to vote, this conversation highlights why every voice matters.Listeners will also hear about the journey of a West Denver native who attended Denver Public Schools and went on to serve the community through public service. The discussion covers voter registration, pre-registration for young people, election security, and practical ways students can engage in civic life and make a difference in their neighborhoods.In this episode:Why voting mattersHow local elections impact daily lifeVoter registration and pre-registration for young peopleCivic engagement opportunities for studentsElection security and voter confidenceThe power of community involvementWhy student voices matter in democracyWhether you're preparing to vote for the first time or looking for ways to become more involved in your community, this episode offers valuable insights into the democratic process and the role each of us plays in shaping the future.🎙️ Educa DPS is part of the DPS Podcast Network and highlights conversations that inform, inspire, and empower students, families, educators, and community members.#EducaDPS #DenverPublicSchools #CivicEngagement #Voting #Democracy #StudentVoice #CommunityLeadership #Education #Denver

¿Qué papel juegan los estudiantes y las familias en el futuro de sus comunidades?En este episodio de Educa DPS, exploramos la importancia de la participación cívica, el voto y el involucramiento en el proceso democrático. Desde comprender cómo funcionan las elecciones locales hasta descubrir cómo los jóvenes pueden participar antes de tener la edad suficiente para votar, esta conversación destaca por qué cada voz importa.Los oyentes también conocerán la historia de un orgulloso egresado de las Escuelas Públicas de Denver que creció en el oeste de Denver y dedicó su carrera al servicio público. La conversación aborda temas como el registro de votantes, el prerregistro para jóvenes, la seguridad electoral y las distintas maneras en que los estudiantes pueden involucrarse en la vida cívica para generar un impacto positivo en sus comunidades.En este episodio: Por qué es importante votar  Cómo las elecciones locales impactan nuestra vida diaria  Registro y prerregistro de votantes para jóvenes  Oportunidades de participación cívica para estudiantes  Seguridad electoral y confianza en el proceso  El poder de la participación comunitaria  Por qué la voz de los estudiantes importa en la democracia Ya sea que te estés preparando para votar por primera vez o que busques formas de involucrarte más en tu comunidad, este episodio ofrece información valiosa sobre el proceso democrático y el papel que todos desempeñamos en la construcción del futuro.🎙️ Educa DPS forma parte de la Red de Podcasts de DPS y presenta conversaciones que informan, inspiran y empoderan a estudiantes, familias, educadores y miembros de la comunidad.#EducaDPS #EscuelasPublicasDeDenver #ParticipacionCivica #Voto #Democracia #VozEstudiantil #LiderazgoComunitario #Educacion #Denver

What happens when students are given a seat at the table?In this episode of Black Voices in Color, student hosts explore the power of student voice, leadership, and advocacy in Denver Public Schools. Through an engaging conversation about leadership development, civic engagement, and educational equity, students discuss how young people can move from identifying challenges to creating meaningful change in their schools and communities.The episode highlights the importance of ensuring all students—especially those whose voices have historically been underrepresented—have opportunities to influence decisions that affect their education and future. Students also share their own experiences, perspectives, and advice for peers who want to get involved and make a difference.In this episode:Why student voice mattersDeveloping leadership skills and confidenceCivic engagement and advocacyYouth-adult partnershipsCreating positive change in schoolsBuilding community through shared experiencesAdvice for students who want to make an impactLeadership doesn't begin after graduation—it starts with having the courage to speak up and get involved.🎙️ Black Voices in Color is part of the DPS Podcast Network and is dedicated to elevating the voices, experiences, and perspectives of Black students across Denver Public Schools.#BlackVoicesInColor #DenverPublicSchools #StudentVoice #StudentLeadership #BlackExcellence #YouthLeadership #Education #StudentAdvocacy #DPSVoices

What does it take to achieve greatness on and off the field?In this special episode of the Marrero Moment, Denver Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero sits down with former Denver Broncos All-Pro safety Justin Simmons for an inspiring conversation about leadership, education, resilience, family, and community impact.Justin reflects on the lessons that shaped his journey from South Florida to Boston College and ultimately the NFL. He shares how setbacks in school taught him the importance of discipline, why education became his greatest investment, and how the support of his "village" helped him overcome challenges along the way.The conversation also explores Justin's recent retirement from professional football, his commitment to serving the Denver community through the Justin Simmons Foundation, and why he believes every young person has the potential to achieve more than they ever imagined.Whether you're a student, parent, educator, athlete, or community leader, this episode offers valuable lessons about humility, perseverance, and the power of giving back.In this episode: Justin Simmons' journey to the NFL  The importance of education and academic success  Overcoming setbacks and learning from failure  Life after football and retirement  Building strong communities through service  Advice for students and future leaders  The partnership between the Justin Simmons Foundation and Denver Public Schools Foundation Subscribe for more conversations highlighting the students, educators, leaders, and stories shaping Denver Public Schools.#DenverPublicSchools #JustinSimmons #DenverBroncos #Leadership #Education #MarreroMoment #DPSStories #StudentSuccess #CommunityImpact #Denver

1. CMAS and CoAlt Family Portal Now OpenColorado Measures of Academic Success, or CMAS, score reports for the 2025–26 school year will be released online through the Colorado Department of education’s Family Portal. On Friday, May 29: Initial student performance summaries will be accessible via the Family Portal.By June 15: Final, detailed performance results — including peer comparisons, strengths and areas for growth — will be added to the portal. And In Fall 2026: Paper reports are sent to your child’s tested school for distribution to families.For more information, we have a guide for how to look up scores online linked in our shownotes: Family Portal Guidance Folder.Next up is a story about DPS students who are graduating TWICE2. A Diploma and a Degree - The DPS Students Who Are Graduating Twicehttps://youtu.be/oOEgv4CnxaU133 DPS students in the class of 2026 received their Associate's degree in addition to a high school diploma. That's two years of college while still in high school. We are so proud of our graduates for their dedication. Head to our shownotes to watch a video about Orion Connally, a Northeast Early College graduate, explain how he did it and how others can too!3. Our third story is about E-Bike Safety Tips from the Denver Police DepartmentE-Bike Safety Tips from Denver Police DepartmentAs we head into summer break, the Denver Police Department would like to remind parents andstudents how to be safe when riding e-bikes and bicycles and avoid potential citations. Riders should always Wear a helmet.Ride in the roadway, as it is illegal and unsafe to ride on the sidewalk.Obey traffic signs and traffic laws.Ride in the same direction as the traffic is traveling and do not cut in front of vehicles.Go the posted speed limit.Wear reflective gearEnsure front and back lights work.Be predictable and use appropriate hand signals.Secure bicycle with U-lock fastened to an immovable object.ATVs, go-carts and other off-road vehicles are prohibited from Denver’s roadways,sidewalks and parks. The Denver Police Department wishes everyone a fun and safe summer.4. I Heart to Read with Justin Simmons and Rachel Garcia - A DPS Literacy CelebrationDPS recently kicked off a new literacy initiative with a high-energy celebration focused on inspiring a love of reading among young scholars. Superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero was joined by former Denver Broncos All-Pro safety Justin Simmons and Mexican Cultural Center representative Rachel Garcia for a day filled with reading, dancing and joyful learning experiences. The initiative aims to connect students with high-quality, grade-level texts while bringing the community into classrooms to help ignite excitement and passion for reading. Head to our shownotes to Watch the recap video: https://youtu.be/w7yTVhTmlr4 5. Tasty Food Free Summer Meal ProgramTasty Food’s free summer meal program will kick off Monday, June 1! All Denver youth, ages 3-18, are welcome to stop by any participating sites to enjoy free and wholesome meals, Monday-Friday between the dates of June 1-August 21. Participating sites are linked in our shownotes ( English and Spanish). You can also visit the Tasty Food website for more information. 

In this powerful episode of DPS Stories, we sit down with Ken Connelly, a middle school educator at Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy, children’s rights advocate, author, and survivor whose journey is unlike anything you’ve heard before.Ken opens up about surviving childhood abduction, growing up in poverty, dropping out of high school, discovering he was dyslexic at 37 years old, and ultimately becoming an educator dedicated to making sure no student falls through the cracks.From serving in the military to advocating for children’s rights on the national stage, Ken shares how resilience, mentorship, and education transformed his life. He also reflects on the teacher who changed everything for him, why teaching became his greatest accomplishment, and how he now works to be that same source of hope for his students every day.You’ll also meet Bishop, Ken’s beloved service dog and unofficial school mascot, whose calming presence has touched countless students.This episode is emotional, inspiring, and a reminder of the incredible impact educators can have on the lives of young people.🎧 Listen now and hear why Ken says, “Hopefully someday someone will say, ‘I had a Mr. C.’”#DPSStories #DenverPublicSchools #Education #TeacherStory #Resilience #StudentSuccess #ChildAdvocate #MiddleSchoolTeacher #PublicEducation #InspiringStories

Go behind the scenes of how Denver Public Schools works in this episode of the DPS 101 Podcast.In Episode 6, host Nicole Brady sits down with Dr. Adella Arredondo, Executive Director of Family and Community Engagement, or FACE.FACE oversees a number of critical programs in DPS: from engaging families in their children's education, providing resources like food and ESL classes, fostering school accountability and academic success, and recruiting volunteers for DPS schools.🎧 Whether you're a parent, staff member, or community member, the DPS 101 podcast is a great way to better understand how DPS operates and how decisions are made.

Our first story is a reminder that SchoolChoice Round 2 is still open@ 1. SchoolChoice Round 2 is still open!If you missed Round 1 of SchoolChoice, changed your mind since Round 1, are new to Denver, or are an ECE-4 applicant who didn’t get matched through Colorado Universal Preschool (UPK), Round 2 is for you!Unlike Round 1, Round 2 applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis within school admission priorities, so you are encouraged to apply soon. If space is available, your student will be offered a seat; otherwise, they’ll be added to the waitlist. If you’re already on a waitlist from Round 1, there is NO need to re-apply to the same school— you’re already in line.If you have any questions, please email [email protected] or call the Choice Hotline at 720-423-3493. 2. Redrawing Our District Equitably: School Boundary and Enrollment Zone UpdateAll families deserve equitable access to the schools that are the best fit for their students. Denver’s changing population means that as a district, we must adapt to ensure every student has access to robust programming. The Redrawing Our District Equitably: School Boundary and Enrollment Zone Update initiative will allow us to evaluate our boundaries and zones to better balance our resources, support healthy school enrollments and address Denver’s shifting population. The  goal is to ensure every student in DPS can thrive, regardless of their zip code.The first Virtual Community Engagement session happened last night, Thursday May 21 at 5 p.m. If you missed this opportunity, you are invited to RSVP to attend the next Virtual Community Engagement session happening TODAY Friday, May 22 at 7:30 a.m. If participating in a virtual engagement session is not for you, you can also share your thoughts via the survey linked in our shownotes. That survey will remain open until June 5. Complete the survey, open through June 5.RSVP for Community Engagement session 3. Our third story is about City and County of Denver Programming and ResourcesTo learn more about summer programming and resources throughout the City and County of Denver, utilize the locator and connect with events and activities near you! The Youth Program Locator is linked in our shownotes.Additionally, youth ages five through 18 have free access to Denver’s recreation centers, swimming pools and cultural centers with their My Denver Card. We also have the My Denver Card linked in our shownotes for easy access.  4. Our fourth story is about the MLE DAC on May 27thJoin the Multilingual Education (MLE) District Advisory Committee (DAC) on Wednesday, May 27 from 5-7 p.m., at  the Children’s Museum of Denver, located at 2121 Children's Museum Dr. All are welcome at this Year‑end MLE DAC Celebration. This celebration will also include a resource fair for multilingual students and families and the Children’s Museum is free of entry for attendees. Information will be shared about the MLE DAC events held throughout the year and the resource fair will host a variety of community organizations and resource providers. Dinner, childcare and interpretation will be available. Attendees are encouraged to pre-register via the link in our shownotes. For more information, visit the MLE website. 5. Tasty Food Free Summer Meal ProgramTasty Food’s free summer meal program will kick off Monday, June 1! All Denver youth, ages 3-18, are welcome to stop by any participating sites to enjoy free and wholesome meals, Monday-Friday between the dates of June 1-August 21. Participating sites are linked in our shownotes ( English and Spanish). You can also visit the Tasty Food website for more information. That’s all for this week! Please remember to like and subscribe to our show.As always, thank you to the DPS External Communications team for their help editing and producing this week’s show.We’ll see you next week for the last episode of season three of DPS Snapshots. 

In this episode of "The Lesson Plan" Dr. Samantha Haviland, DPS Executive Director of Career and College Success and Scott Burke, Director of Higher Education Learning join host Nicole Brady for a graduation season discussion on career and college preparation. Learn how college level and concurrent enrollment courses have led to a record number of DPS students receiving an associates degree while still in high school; how the district is expanding Career and Technical Education; and how DPS students can find mentors, internships and job opportunities while still in high school.

Our first story is a big one: Redrawing Our District Equitably: School Boundary and Enrollment Zone Update Redrawing Our District Equitably: School Boundary and Enrollment Zone UpdateAll families deserve equitable access to the schools that are the best fit for their students. Denver’s changing population means that DPS must adapt to ensure every student has access to robust programming. The Redrawing Our District Equitably: School Boundary and Enrollment Zone Update initiative allows for DPS to evaluate the boundaries and zones to better balance resources, support healthy school enrollments and address Denver’s shifting population. The goal is to ensure every student in DPS can thrive, regardless of their zip code. DPS is committed to making community-informed decisions, and you are highly encouraged to get involved in this conversation. At the moment, there are two ways to do that. You can share your thoughts via the survey linked in our shownotes, which is open through June 5.You can RSVP to attend one of the Virtual Community Engagement sessions happening on :Thursday, May 21 at 5 p.m.or Friday, May 22 at 7:30 a.m.Additional engagement opportunities will be coming in fall 2026.Next up is a story about the Device Policy Sentiment Survey2. Device Policy Sentiment Survey Closes at 5 p.m. TodayThe DPS Board of Education is set to vote on June 8 on a new policy regarding students having access to communication devices (such as cellphones, headphones, smart watches, etc.) during school hours. DPS is conducting a survey to understand the DPS community's current sentiment to ensure upcoming communications about this policy clearly address concerns and questions. The Device Policy Sentiment survey (Linked in our shownotes) closes at 5 p.m. today, May 15. The questions take 5-7 minutes to answer and all responses are confidential.You can learn more about the policy on the Communication Devices Advisory Committee (CDAC) website, also linked in our shownotes. 3. Our third story is about Recognizing National Prevention Week: Anti-Vaping ResourcesIn honor of National Prevention Week, DPS is highlighting the importance of vaping prevention. E-cigarettes remain the most common tobacco product used by students nationwide, and we are committed to providing our community with tools to combat this trend. Our goal is to help students navigate the social pressures and health risks associated with vaping. Most middle and high school students who vape want to quit.Visit the Anti-Vaping campaign page, linked in our shownotes,  to learn more about the impacts and to find resources for those who may need help quitting. By staying informed, we can work together to foster a safer, healthier environment for every learner. 4. Our fourth story is about the 2026-27 Back to School Shopping Experience While most people are winding down for the year, the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) team is looking ahead to help students start next year ready to learn and succeed!The new 2026–27 Back-to-School Shopping Experience has been redesigned to give families a more relaxed and personalized experience at our Community Hubs. The Back-to-School Shopping Experience is a free one-stop shopping experience where students can pick out grade-level backpacks and school supplies in a welcoming and stress-free environment. All DPS families are welcome.To help families avoid long lines and have enough time to shop comfortably, visits will take place by scheduled appointment during the week of August 10–14.The first step is to Complete the interest form, linked in our shownotes. Next, a team member will contact you before August 10–14 to schedule your shopping day and time.Finally, On your scheduled day, bring your student’s ID number (lunch number) and enjoy the experience.Our fifth and final story is about Student Art On Display at Denver International Airport 5. Student Art On Display at Denver International Airport In celebration of 150 years of Colorado history, Denver School of the Arts, Hill Campus of Arts and Sciences and Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy collaborated to create a DPS student art exhibition at Denver International Airport! The “Mile High Expressions” exhibit forms a collective portrait of a state that is both deeply rooted in history and constantly evolving. This is more than an opportunity for students to share their work; it is a chance for them to contribute to Colorado’s story. Travelers looking to celebrate America’s 250th and Colorado’s 150th milestones are invited to view the exhibition. The exhibition is on view now through Nov. 2, and is located on the upper level of C Concourse, Mezzanine Level 3.Head to our shownotes to watch the student artists share why this exhibition is special to them. You can also visit dpsk12.org/page/history to see how DPS plans to celebrate 150 years of Colorado statehood.  That’s all for this week! Please remember to like and subscribe to never miss an episode. As always, thank you to the DPS External Communications team for their help editing and producing this week’s show.We’ll see you next week on DPS Snapshots. 

Go behind the scenes of how Denver Public Schools works in this episode of the DPS 101 Podcast.In Episode 5, host Nicole Brady sits down with Trena, Chief of Operations for Denver Public Schools.The Office of Operations oversees more than 2,000 employees in DPS departments including Climate and Safety, Transportation, Facilities, Sustainability, Technology Services, Planning, Design & Construction and more!🎧 Whether you're a parent, staff member, or community member, the DPS 101 podcast is a great way to better understand how DPS operates and how decisions are made.

1. Uplifting Community Voice: New Collaborative School Committee (CSC) Impact VideosThe  DPS Communications team and the Family & Community Engagement team, also known as FACE, created a series of Collaborative School Committee Impact Videos through interviews with school leaders, teachers, parents, students and community members.This project provides a first hand look at what it means to serve on a CSC and how it supports community voice and family engagement.  You can watch the impact video, linked in our shownotes. CSC Impact Video2. DPS Students are Hopping Aboard the Bike Bus https://youtu.be/2xZStpVFkfoBike to School Day may have been postponed by snow this week, but a growing number of DPS schools are supporting "Bike Buses.” Bike Buses are  groups of students and adults riding together on bikes to school.  Watch the video linked in our show notes to learn how bike buses work and how the DPS Sustainability team is helping more schools start their own programs.3.  DPS Foundation Supports Extra Week of Discovery LinkEquity in access to summer programming is a priority for DPS, and the Denver Public Schools Foundation is helping us deliver. Their recent funding support has allowed Discovery Link to add a third week of summer camp at Barnum Elementary for students from several school sites. The DPS Foundation raises funds for afterschool programs, classroom grants, student grants, workforce development and more. You can learn more about this work and discover ways to get engaged at dpsfoundation.org.   4. DPS Seal of BiliteracyDenver Public Schools celebrated a record-breaking year at the annual Seal of Biliteracy celebration hosted by North High School, where more than 1,600 students were recognized for demonstrating proficiency in multiple languages. That number marks a new record for Denver Public Schools and reflects the growing number of students embracing bilingualism as a superpower. The celebration honored students for their language skills, cultural competence, and commitment to future readiness. Watch a recap of the ceremony: https://youtu.be/UOhj_k6HAcw 5.  May the Force (Elementary) Be With YouForce Elementary welcomed current and new families for its “May the Force Be With You” STEAM event, giving future students and families a hands-on look at what makes the school so special. From planetarium adventures and magnet games to lightsaber decorating, live reptiles, and relay races, families explored interactive learning experiences designed to spark curiosity and fun. Events like this help strengthen school-family partnerships while showcasing the creativity and excitement happening every day at Force Elementary.  A fun video of the May 4th event is linked in our shownotes: . https://youtu.be/fFhYhFoh-28 That’s all for this week! Please remember to like and subscribe to never miss an episode. As always, thank you to the DPS External Communications team for their help editing and producing this week’s show.We’ll see you next time on DPS Snapshots. 

1. Should Students Have Access to Communication Devices During School Hours?The DPS Board of Education is finalizing a new policy regarding students having access to communication devices (such as cellphones, headphones, smart watches, etc.) during school hours. As we prepare for implementation in July 2026, we are conducting a survey to understand the DPS community's current sentiment to ensure upcoming communications about this policy clearly address concerns and questions.The Device Policy Sentiment survey, is now open and closes at 5 p.m. on Friday, May 15. The questions take 5-7 minutes to answer and all responses are confidential.Learn more about the policy on the Communication Devices Advisory Committee (CDAC) 2. Resources to Celebrate Our Educators During Teacher Appreciation Week!Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and DPS plans to roll out the red carpet to say thank you to our amazing educators. To help spread the cheer, we've created a variety of templates, like notecards, signs/signs for schools (8.5″ x 11″ & 8.5″ x 14″) and graphics( profile photo). ( Teacher Appreciation webpage)3. 2026-27 Discovery Link and Little Links Registration2026-27 Discovery Link and Little Links Regional Rolling Registration will conclude today at 6 p.m. Registration for all regions and locations will open back up on Tuesday, May 5 at 6 a.m. Read this document4. 100 Years of Pride: The Legacy of West High School West High School marked 100 years on its current campus, celebrating a legacy that dates back to 1883. Students, staff and alumni came together to honor the school’s history, reflect on its impact and celebrate the generations who have passed through its halls.If you missed the in-person celebration, watch the celebration recap to see how the West Cowboys marked this milestone. 5. DPS Schools Earn Statewide RecognitionJoin us in celebrating the outstanding achievements across our district! This year, many DPS schools earned statewide recognition from the Colorado Department of Education for exceptional performance and student growth. 22 schools received the John Irwin Award, recognizing sustained excellence in academic achievement in math, literacy and science. Two schools were honored with Centers of Excellence Awards for achieving high academic growth among at-risk students, and one school received the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award for exceeding growth expectations across grade levels. We’re proud of all the educators, students and community members that helped contribute to these recognitions. 

DPS Interim Deputy Superintendent of Operations Chuck Carpenter explains the Milll Levy Override Proposal DPS is considering for the November 2026 ballot.  Listen to learn: - What a Mill Levy Override is - The Difference Between a Mill Levy Override (MLO) and a Bond - How the money can be spent - What the impact is on property taxes - How the community can provide input on the MLO proposal

In this episode of the Educa DPS Podcast, we sit down with Yoseline Loya from the Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) to break down everything DPS students and families need to know about preparing for life after high school.From scholarships and financial aid to college visits and career exploration, this conversation is all about access, opportunity, and making informed decisions. Whether you’re a freshman just getting started or a senior ready to apply, DSF provides free support every step of the way.We also cover:• What it means to be college and career ready• When students should start planning (hint: it’s earlier than you think)• FAFSA vs. CASFA and how financial aid really works• How families can get involved and supported• Why students should apply first and decide laterIf you’re a DPS student or parent, this episode is for you. There are opportunities out there — and you don’t have to navigate them alone.🔗 Learn more about the Denver Scholarship Foundation: www.denverscholarship.org📞 Contact: 303-951-4140👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to help more families access these incredible resources.

En este episodio del podcast Educa DPS, conversamos con Yoseline Loya de la Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) para desglosar todo lo que los estudiantes y las familias de DPS necesitan saber sobre la preparación para la vida después de la escuela secundaria.Desde becas y ayuda financiera hasta visitas universitarias y exploración de carreras, esta conversación gira en torno al acceso, las oportunidades y la toma de decisiones informadas. Ya sea que seas un estudiante de primer año que recién comienza o un estudiante de último año listo para postularse, la DSF ofrece apoyo gratuito en cada paso del camino.También abordamos los siguientes temas:• Qué significa estar preparado para la universidad y para el mundo laboral• Cuándo deben comenzar a planificar los estudiantes (pista: es antes de lo que crees)• FAFSA vs. CASFA y cómo funciona realmente la ayuda financiera• Cómo las familias pueden involucrarse y recibir apoyo• Por qué los estudiantes deben postularse primero y decidir despuésSi eres estudiante o padre de familia de DPS, este episodio es para ti. Existen oportunidades disponibles, y no tienes que recorrer este camino en solitario.🔗 Obtén más información sobre la Denver Scholarship Foundation: www.denverscholarship.org📞 Contacto: 303-951-4140👉 No olvides dar «me gusta», suscribirte y compartir este episodio para ayudar a que más familias accedan a estos increíbles recursos.