Dear Team DPS/DPS Community,
Along with the thousands of DPS staff across the district, I am eager to welcome students back to our schools for the 2026-27 school year! Whether you’re returning to DPS or joining us for the first time, we are thrilled to make this the best year yet.
This semester, there is much going on across DPS. Highlighted below are some important initiatives and reminders for you to be aware of.
The New Personal Communications Devices (PCD) Policy Now In Place
Student devices such as cellphones, smart watches, earbuds, etc. must be turned off and kept out of sight during the entire school day while students are on campus. Students should turn off and store their PCDs during class time, passing periods, lunch periods and restroom breaks while on campus during the school day. This also includes during school field trips. Learn more about the policy on our website.
Some schools may have a place to store PCDs or students may keep them in backpacks or lockers, not pants pockets. Each school will decide how they expect students to store PCDs and will share those storage expectations with families and students.
Every school will provide a reliable way for families and students to reach each other. Please follow the school’s process.
Attendance
Our collective goal is that every student arrives to class on time and remains in class for the full day, every day. Every absence, even excused, makes it more difficult for students — and their peers — to succeed, no matter what grade they are in.
Access the 2026-27 school year calendar to plan appointments and vacations, ensuring your child does not miss valuable learning time.
The return to school also means the return of germs. Visit the Attendance website and one-pagers in multiple languages for guidance on when to keep your child home and when to send them to school.
Redrawing Our District Equitably: School Boundary and Enrollment Zone Update
As Denver changes, DPS is adapting to ensure every learner has access to robust, quality programming. Join us at upcoming community listening sessions and share your voice as we work together to adjust enrollment boundaries and zones. Learn more on our website.
Early-Release Heat Days
Early-Release Heat Days may occur if indoor temperatures become unsafe in schools without air conditioning. In such cases, the decision will be communicated by 5 p.m. the day prior. Modified bus routes will be provided but families can pick up their children directly from school at the designated release time. If you have questions, contact your school.
Communicate Directly with Schools via Rooms
Send secure, direct messages to teachers, coaches and staff via Rooms, which lives inside the DPS app. Download the DPS app for Android or iOS. For more information, visit the Resources Bank for Families.
DPS Family Academy
This 15-minute digital orientation is available to all families 24/7 and guides you through how to access resources and programs to help your student thrive all year long. Access Family Academy in multiple languages.
DPS Contacts
DPS Schools: School Finder has the list of all schools and their contact information.
DPS Departments and Programs: Visit the DPS Contacts Page to reach DPS departments and programs.
In collaboration,
Dr. Alex Marrero
Superintendent