A hallmark of all of our equity and inclusion efforts is our ability to meet unique needs, embrace families and communities, encourage conversations, and generate and inspire advocates.

Equity is a Shared Core Value
The work of eliminating opportunity gaps belongs to everyone in DPS. From educational opportunities to hiring practices to discipline policies, we must focus on how our actions further our Shared Core Value of equity. To live that value of equity, we must provide opportunity, access and inclusion to all, while providing the necessary resources and supports to raise the achievement of all students while narrowing the gaps between the highest and lowest performing students. Learn more in our Denver Plan 2020.

Voices of African-American educators

At DPS, we know we must do more than talk about our values, we must live them. We asked Dr. Sharon Bailey, a scholar, community leader and former Denver Board of Education member, to meet with our African-American educators to learn about their experiences in Denver Public Schools. These team members also shared their concerns about the experiences of our African-American students. Read the thought-provoking full report (.pdf), or the executive summary(.pdf).

In response to the Bailey Report, The African-American Equity Task Force was formed in the fall of 2016 with the charge to develop and present a set of prioritized recommendations to help close the Opportunity Gap for our African-American students and educators. Read the recommendations and latest update.

Programs for educators and the community
We offer a variety of programs for DPS educators and the Denver community that focus specifically on building equity:

• ED Talks
• Equity Boot Camp Sessions
• DPS Belong: Employee Built Groups
• Mentorship Program