We spoke with the Downtown Denver Expeditionary School (DDES) to discover how they foster connection. While no two charter schools are the same, DDES reflects the creativity and community spirit many families encounter within the charter landscape. Following a foundation built on a program called Expeditionary Learning–where real-world experiences and strong academics go hand-in-hand through extended projects with community contribution in mind–DDES emphasizes the importance of developing capable, compassionate, and resilient young people, whether in classrooms or in the community. While a bi-weekly Community Circle is held to highlight the joys and well doings of the students, a Celebration of Learning is held at the end of every project for an authentic audience to enjoy. Fall Fest, Bluelapalooza, and the Family Dance are said to be beloved by students, as well as additional family nights like Math Night, Social Emotional Learning Night, Crew Club celebrations and dances, student-led conferences, and their annual auction and fundraiser–all events help
families connect with the broader DDES community and their child’s learning. “Service is woven directly into our expeditions and grows naturally from the issues students study—food systems, immigration, environmental stewardship, civic engagement, civil rights, and more,” says DDES representative Katianne Glesne. “Students work with community partners, learn from experts, and take meaningful action connected to their learning.” For example, DDES’s Compassion Day is their version of Valentine’s Day. They give back to the Denver community by supporting nonprofits, assembling care kits, and reinforcing compassion through
well as opportunities for meaningful collaboration, and strengthens relationships between families, students, and staff. “Together, these experiences make DDES a vibrant, connected place where learning is active, student-driven, adventurous, and joyful–every single day.” Just like the Downtown Denver Expeditionary School, charter schools are built on culture, tradition, and student and family involvement through a system of diverse enrollment, student and family engagement initiatives, creativity inside and outside of the classroom, and positive reinforcement on striving for excellence and fundamentals. Looking deeper than whether a school is in good proximity or has good ratings is important when choosing a school that not only your child will thrive in, but you as a parent will, too. Just like choosing the right tennis shoe, choosing the right school matters, because the best fit is the one that makes all the difference in the long run.
community projects. THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY
This is only the surface of the opportunities DDES offers their students–the Adventure Program, Meow Wolf Partnership, and fieldwork engagement projects to name a few more–that reflect the importance of community engagement. They build belonging and trust, notes Glesne, as
Explore outstanding charter schools that put students at the center of learning. With dynamic teaching approaches and a commitment to academic excellence, these schools offer flexible, creative environments designed for student success.
DSST Public Schools
Founded 2004 (303) 524-6324
dsstpublicschools.org
DSST Public Schools is a network of public, open enrollment, free charter schools in Denver and Aurora. Our eight campuses serve middle and high school students and are widely considered to be among the leading open enrollment STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) schools in the United States, and have become a destination for educators nationwide. DSST schools are home to the highest performing and highest growth secondary schools in Denver and Aurora Public Schools, and to date, 100% of our graduates have been admitted into college, university or a postsecondary program. Looking for a school that will challenge and inspire your child? DSST Public Schools is a network of top-performing, tuition-free charter schools serving grades 6-12 in Denver and Aurora. At DSST, students don't just learn. They grow into confident, curious and compassionate leaders. As one of the nation's leading public STEM school networks, DSST oers innovative science, technology, engineering, and math programming that prepares students for the careers of tomorrow. Combined with a strong focus on character development, DSST ensures your child is ready for success in college and beyond. With a proven track record of 100% college admission for graduates, and a diverse, inclusive community that celebrates every student's potential, DSST provides personalized support to help your child shine. Join a school where excellence meets opportunity. Learn More and Apply Today to give your child the future they deserve!
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