Wooden letters

Denver Schools Thrive Initiative

Addressing Declining Enrollment with Equity and Empathy

This is an infographic depicting the timeline associated with the Denver Schools Thrive Initiative. In Sep.-Oct. '24 Regional Educational Engagement Sessions take place. In Nov. '24 Recommendation Presented, Board and Superintendent Engagement, Public Comment and Board Vote takes place. In Dec. '24 - Aug. '25 Supporting Your School Community Through Change takes place.

Overview

What is Executive Limitation 18?

Executive Limitation 18, or EL 18, provides guardrails on how the Superintendent approaches the process to address declining enrollment.

Why is it Necessary to Address Declining Enrollment?

Due to limited resources at schools impacted by low enrollment, not every student has access to the same opportunities. Addressing this challenge ensures that every student thrives, every teacher and leader is supported and our resources are used to create better opportunities for all of Denver’s students.

What is the Purpose of Regional Educational Engagement?

DPS is committed to serving students and communities equitably and empathically in this process. During September and October, DPS will host six regional meetings to discuss enrollment trends and engage in learning about declining enrollment with Denver communities.

What Happens Next?

On Nov. 7, the Superintendent will provide recommendations to the Board of Education. Following that, there will be an opportunity for engagement with the Board and the Superintendent, leading into Public Comment on Nov. 18. Next, the Board of Education will vote on the recommendation.

Benefits of Addressing Declining Enrollment

Improved Student Experience

  • Increased access to mental health resources.

  • Allowing for more time with specialized roles that serve numerous schools districtwide.

  • Increased funding for programs like art, P.E., technology and music.

Improved Staff Experience

  • More robust support from school and district leadership.

  • Greater opportunities for feedback, observation and coaching.

  • More funding directly in the classroom at all schools.

Improved Systems Experience

  • Maximized use of district resources.

  • Relieving pressure on operational services.

  • Additional program offerings.

  • More funding for improved learning environments.

Regional Engagement Sessions

The Regional Engagement Presentation Materials are linked here, and notes from the Regional Engagement Sessions are linked here. A summary of feedback from the regional meetings is available here.

We encourage community members to stay involved by:

  • Attend Meetings: Participation in upcoming meetings and events.

  • Provide Feedback: Sharing thoughts and concerns through our various feedback channels.

  • Support Each Other: Working together as a community to support our students, families, and staff during this time of change.

Initiative Videos

This video explains the impact low enrollment can have on a school's access to resources. Learn more by watching the video above.

This video is a recorded presentation about Denver’s population trends, facilitated by the Colorado State Demography Office.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you would like to ask a question not answered here, please fill out this form.

Looking for more? View historical declining enrollment information here.