A diverse group of civic leaders who understand that high-quality public education and a vibrant city go hand-in-hand. We believe that if Denver Public Schools can maintain a sharp focus on students and student outcomes, our city can successfully close the equity gaps that limit learning, development and future opportunity for thousands of Denver children every year.
Who We Are
Why We Came Together
A sample of recent data reveals that we are not serving our students equitably or well:
Denver has the largest test score gaps by race in the state.
24% of black and Latino students read at grade level; 72% of white students read at grade level.
14% of low-income students do math at grade level; 44% of non low-income students do math at grade level.
5% of black and Latino 3rd graders read at grade level; 30% of white 3rd graders read at grade level.
Sources: 2022 CMAS and DPS Interim Assessment Data
Why Outcomes Matter
High quality public education supports high quality of life:
Increased employment & earnings
A stronger economy
Housing stability
Decreased crime
Informed electorate
Good citizenship
The future vitality of Denver rests in our ability to generate better outcomes for DPS students.
An Urgent Situation
Civic leaders throughout Denver have decreased engagement in the success of our schools.
Politics and personal agendas are taking priority in the district.
An emphasis on high expectations has eroded.
Commitments to school performance accountability and district business transparency have disappeared.
Significant enrollment declines are predicted.
Student achievement and life skills development have taken a backseat to these conditions.
Our Vision
We envision a public school district in Denver that fuels our thriving city. DPS will eliminate opportunity gaps, deliver top-quality academic outcomes and support the development of life skills for each and every student.
In doing so, DPS will be a national model in its ability to prepare students for successful post-secondary or career pursuits.
EDUCATE Denver will empower civic leaders with the knowledge and tools they need to advocate for the high-quality DPS education our students deserve.
Our Mission
EDUCATE
Civic leaders will be knowledgeable about topics that directly impact the quality of Denver Public Schools.
ELEVATE
Civic leaders will have high expectations and will elevate the success of Denver Public Schools as a top priority.
EVALUATE
Civic leaders will hold Denver Public Schools accountable to a standard of excellence in terms of academic achievement, social-emotional well-being and life skills development among students.
SUPPORT
EDUCATE Denver will support Denver Public Schools' policies, programs and decisions that center on positive student outcomes and improve governance of the district.