News Release

 

February 27, 2007

Denver Public Schools Announces 2007-2008 Beacon Schools

Denver Public School's Board of Education unanimously granted Beacon School status to eight DPS schools for the 2007-2008 school year. The Beacon School program was jointly developed by the district and the Denver Classroom Teachers Association (DCTA) and is intended to encourage innovation and reform initiated and developed by teachers and principals. In Beacon Schools, teachers commit to support a specific school-wide education plan.

The 2007-2008 Beacon Schools are:

Schools submitted Beacon School proposals for review by a committee comprised of DCTA members and DPS staff in November 2006. Proposals contained strategies focused on increasing student achievement through a coherent and consistent educational plan and collaborative vision that meets the needs of Denver's students and exceeds the goals outlined by the Denver Plan.

"I am so impressed by the work these schools have done to create something truly unique to serve students instructional needs," said Superintendent Michael Bennet. "The proposals are innovative and collaborative and they embody the Denver Plan."

Kim Ursetta, President of the DCTA is equally as enthusiastic about the first class of Beacon Schools. "DPS has some of the most talented teachers in the country, and the Beacon Schools program provides these teachers the opportunity to work collaboratively in order to maximize their instructional potential," Ursetta said. "I am excited that our teachers have the opportunity to shape innovation in order to meet the needs of students and their families."

Eight Beacon School proposals were selected from a pool of 19. Their education plans can be accessed at bsi.dpsk12.org. The next Beacon selection process will begin in spring 2007 for schools seeking the designation in 2008-2009.

 

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