“Examining Denver Public Schools’ Education Strategies: A Closer Look”

DPS states on their website that their goal is “to graduate students who meet academic standards and are prepared for their futures,” but the strategies to achieve this must change. However, the specific strategies they plan to use have not been disclosed yet; they have been delayed for the new board.

In 2021, they expressed their focus on preparing for the fall and ensuring that students learn every day. So far, what have they achieved? Not much.

DPS claims to be a leader in teaching the “Whole Child.” This implies they aim to provide a comprehensive education, but some might interpret it as taking on a larger role in child-rearing to allow parents to focus on work. This aligns with the “build back better” slogan, although the mention of the U.N. (United Nations) might have been a mix-up, as it’s typically associated with Biden’s slogan.

Furthermore, DPS emphasizes “early learning literacy.” However, this doesn’t guarantee complete literacy by graduation; it likely means students will have basic reading skills, but not necessarily critical thinking skills.

They also aim to prepare students for future careers as determined by “experts.” Some will be prepared for elite jobs, while others will be prepared for vocational careers, but the emphasis is on functional literacy.

DPS states that they will “close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic kids.” This suggests they aim for equal outcomes, which could involve elevating some students while potentially lowering the bar for others, resembling affirmative action policies.

Regarding the promise of “dramatically expanded preschool and kindergarten opportunities,” it appears that COVID-related lockdowns, forced vaccinations, and masking have led to a decline in enrollment, potentially affecting these plans.

Notably, when discussing their Denver plan, there is no mention of improving literacy rates, which have been on a sharp decline nationwide since 1984. Public schools, including DPS, often overlook literacy rates due to complex funding and bureaucracy issues. The powerful National Education Association (NEA) further complicates addressing the problem.

When Tay Anderson expresses his support for teacher’s unions, it suggests that he prioritizes maintaining his position of power and influence within the education system.

So, what is Equity? It seems to involve indoctrination, potentially tied to critical race theory. Students might be encouraged to prioritize their instincts over questioning and reasoning through their urges. They may focus more on feelings and emotions rather than independent critical thinking.

This approach may not emphasize raising virtuous individuals with broad knowledge but rather imparting specific information to align with the school district’s agenda. While critical thinking and analysis may be taught, it could be geared towards “spoon-feeding” students with predetermined beliefs, potentially leading to a certain way of thinking about specific issues.