Announcements

All DPS high schools will host two-week Ninth Grade Academies at their schools from July 27 to August 7, 2009.  All parents or guardians of incoming ninth graders should have received a letter and registration form from the high school where their son/daughter is projected to attend and/or have completed and been accepted for a School of Choice/Magnet Application in the fall to invite students to participate in the Ninth Grade Academies. 

The academies are open to all students.  High school is a critical passage in a student's life.  It shapes who he/she becomes in the future.  During these years the academic preparation gained in high school and the real-life skills acquired will lead to important career decisions and establish life long friendships, while having fun and participating in important school events. 

All incoming ninth grade students are invited to attend; the academy will jump start the transition from middle school to a successful high school experience.  Students will receive the instruction and support needed to strengthen their academic skills to thrive in high school.  DPS has collected two years of data on the Ninth Grade Academies; students who participated improved their academic performance, had a stronger attachment to their high schools and peer groups, and were more likely to graduate from high school! 

• Average class size is limited to 1 teacher per 15 students.
• High school credit will be given to students who successfully complete the academy - attend nine out of the ten days of the academy.
• Literacy instruction will incorporate higher level thinking skills, problem solving and hands-on learning experiences.
• They will take part in a program, Success Highways, designed to improve student confidence.
• A class entitled Introduction to High School will provide a foundation of strategies to achieve academic success.
• Students will be eligible for incentive drawings by attending the Ninth Grade Academy.
• Students who complete the Academy will receive a small backpack full of school supplies for ninth grade.
• Students will discover how being an active learner is fun and engaging!

Listed below are the high schools offering Ninth Grade Academies with their schedule option of half or full day programming:

SCHOOL                                                                            TIME                                     PHONE

 ** one week only/August 4-7 (8:00 AM - 2:15 PM and August 18 (8:00 AM - 3:30 PM)

Please note the following important details:

• Ninth Grade Academies Dates:  July 27th through August 7th
• RTD coupons are available for those who need transportation
• Half day programs will offer a snack; full day programs will offer a morning snack, lunch and an afternoon snack   - free of charge

If you have questions, please contact the high school or the Ninth Grade Academies' Office at 720-424-8277.