More progress for Denver

Congratulations to our district partner Denver Public Schools for test scores released last week that demonstrate continued progress for all students and a narrowing of the achievement gap. “Notably, the diverse district’s academic growth was driven by low-income students, students of color, students with disabilities and English language learners,” says the Colorado Independent. “Students in those groups made progress at a faster rate than students not into those groups, shrinking the growth gaps between traditionally underserved students and their more privileged peers.” See the news story on ColoradoIndependent.com.

In our case study on Denver Public Schools, released a few months ago, we explore five critical factors that we believe account for their continued success:

1. A long-term, integrated approach to system redesign.

2. A deliberate approach to equity, accountability, and portfolio management including having chartering authority.

3. A systemwide approach to human capital management.

4. Transition funding to spur innovation and support change.

5. The challenge of transitioning from system-level conditions to school-level practice.

For details, download “It Takes a System: Redesigning a District for Equity and Excellence.”

We at ERS, are so honored to have been a part of this achievement since 2011 and look forward to continuing to support Denver’s impressive efforts this next year for continued growth for all students.