DPS Resources

Denver Public Schools Takes Learning Seriously

Too much is at stake not to, including Denver’s next generation of leaders and its future work force. The 2005 district improvement plan highlights the district’s challenges and strategies for improvement.

We have made progress. Test scores are rising. An ambitious literacy plan is in place, and new rigor in math instruction is bringing focus and consistency to classrooms across the district. Increased community support is also evident after the passage of a major bond and mill levy increase in 2003. These new funds help pay for new schools, repair existing schools, hire art and music teachers in elementary schools, purchase new textbooks and revitalize neighborhood schools, among other priorities.

And we are holding ourselves accountable for results. When schools fail to improve student achievement after receiving extra support and resources, the district and school board have taken swift action. For example, a decision was made to re-design Mitchell Elementary. The district is now accepting proposals to operate a neighborhood school, charter school or contract school for the 2005-2006 school year. An unsatisfactory rating at any Denver public school is unacceptable.

Still, much work lies ahead to improve student performance, close the achievement gap, and provide high-quality professional development to teachers. We must also give principals the tools they need to be successful leaders, improve the high school graduation rate, and increase parental involvement.

Under the federal law No Child Left Behind, districts lagging in student performance must submit an improvement plan to the Colorado Department of Education. We are pleased to share our blueprint with the Denver community.

Download the Full District Improvement Plan - Draft [pdf]