DPS Daily Update: March 20

Survey Going to all DPS Families, in Preparation for Start of Remote Learning: This afternoon, we sent an email to all DPS families that includes a link to a “Technology Survey for Families.” In preparation for the start of remote learning on April 7, we want to understand what computers and learning technologies families have in their homes for children to use.

DPS is in the process of purchasing additional Chromebooks to make available to families who need additional technology. That distribution will begin on Wednesday, March 25, and more details will be forthcoming. 

Remote Learning Plan: We are finalizing DPS’ remote learning plan so our students can continue their education while our school buildings are closed. The plan is meant to support continuous instruction, provide access to technology for all students, and maintain a connection to the community. It lays out options and best practices for remote learning, checklists and sample schedules for parents and families, technology resources, and more!

We Can Do It, DPS! ¡Sí se puede, DPS! We have been deeply inspired as our Denver Public Schools families, educators and staff have come together with incredible support for each other. On Facebook, we asked how you’re encouraging your loved ones, classmates and friends during this time – and the DPS community is responding with photos, ideas for passing the time (including a virtual dance party!) and messages of hope. We encourage you to take a look at these messages and add your own. We can do it, DPS! ¡Sí se puede!

Denver Health’s School-Based Health Centers Moving to Phone Visits: For the week of March 23, Denver Health School-Based Medical Providers will be available to answer any medical questions you or your student might have. There will be no face-to-face visits on-site, but phone visits are available to assist with non-urgent medical questions, medication refills, and to help connect you to other Denver Health resources.

The SBHC team of mental health therapists and psychiatrists will be available to call previously scheduled patients by phone. 

Lincoln Campus SBHC: 720-423-5020
North Campus SBHC: 720-423-2718
Place Bridge Campus SBHC: 720-424-2050
Evie Dennis Campus SBHC: 720-423-7610 

Gov. Polis Suspends All In-Person Learning through April 17: Gov. Jared Polis issued an executive order that suspends in-person learning in all public and private schools across the state from March 23 to April 17.

This means there will be no in-person DPS classes until at least Monday, April 20.

DPS will begin remote learning on Tuesday, April 7—the first day of scheduled instruction following our extended break. We have spent the last few days working with school leaders and teachers on the plans to begin remote learning. Click here for Superintendent Susana Cordova’s letter to the community on the plans for remote learning.

At-Home Activities for Students: We asked our DPS educators to send us suggestions for simple, fun, at-home activities to share with our families over the extended break. We’re posting some each day, in many different subjects, on our Facebook page and the DPS website.

The Importance of Social Distancing: In order to fight the spread of COVID-19, our health partners are emphasizing the importance of staying home as much as possible and social distancing. More information is available here.

Responding to Community Members: Community members and members of Team DPS have questions about our operations plans. We responded to questions from families asking how they can get refunds for the ECE program, Discovery Link and Spring Break Camp. We also answered a variety of pay-related questions for full-time, part-time, hourly employees and guest teachers. Read the FAQ.

Responding to Members of the Media: Members of the media reached out to us with questions about our efforts to provide online learning opportunities to families, how we are paying our spring athletic coaches and how we would manage our efforts if Gov. Polis issues a shelter-in-place order. They are also curious to know how DPS is managing the many challenges we are faced with as the COVID-19 health crisis continues to unfold.