Some Denver schools show significant growth in performance

DENVER — Denver Public Schools uses a system of colors to measure whether schools are meeting or exceeding expectations and Superintendent Tom Boasberg indicates over the last two years, the number of Blue (Distinguished) or Green (Meets Expectations) has increased from 60 to 83.

“These numbers tell us DPS is seeing more academic growth than any medium or large school districts in the state,” said Boasberg. “The numbers show 58 percent of Denver Schools are rated blue or green — a 13 percent increase over the past two years.”

While there is growth at all levels, the strongest growth has come at the middle school level, where the number of blue and green schools has nearly quadrupled from 4 to 15.

The success is a result of growth at district-run middle schools such as Merrill, Skinner, Morey and Hill along with very high performances at charter middle schools run by Strive, Denver School of Science and Technology and KIPP.

The Denver Plan was developed seven years ago, and since then middle school students posted double-digit gains, scoring proficient or above in math, reading, science and writing.

“While turn-around and middle schools are posting critical growth numbers, the hope is parents, teachers and administrators are changing the climate in DPS schools which is helping bring in new families who have confidence in our schools and our educational process,” said Boasberg.

In all, 20 schools improved an overall rating.  Fifteen schools rated distinguished and eight others in far northeast Denver received distinguished or meets expectations ratings.

Test scores will be released next week, which will provide yet another benchmark for the district.