Every day at Denver Public Schools (DPS), the DPS experience comes to life through our students, educators, families and community. Through passionate learning, personalized support, powerful impact, prestigious achievement and being proud of who we are, DPS is shaping extraordinary futures.
Choosing a school is one of the biggest decisions a family makes when moving to a new city. These stories celebrate what it means to be part of the DPS experience.
At Columbine Elementary, fifth-grade literacy teacher Julia Puckett brings curiosity, confidence, and joy into the classroom. A DPS alum herself, Julia earned the district’s Blue Ribbon in Reading, Writing and Intervention after her students achieved a remarkable 73% growth in English Language Arts. She builds strong relationships, uses data to guide instruction, and encourages students to take ownership of their learning. Whether she’s sparking laughter, celebrating milestones, or helping students set meaningful goals, Julia creates a space where children feel proud of their progress and excited to learn. Read Julia’s story.
At Hamilton Middle School, Student Support Liaison Liza Alvarez builds trust, connection, and belonging for students and families. Through restorative practices, culturally responsive support, and strong family partnerships, she helps middle schoolers stay engaged, make positive choices, and feel confident in who they are. As a Latina role model, she shows students the power of representation and ensures every learner feels seen and supported. Read Liza’s story.
At George Washington High School, speech and debate coach Maryrose Kohan helps students discover their voices and the confidence to use them. For nearly two decades, she has created a classroom where young people learn to listen deeply, build strong arguments, and connect with people who see the world differently. Speech and debate class is a place where students take risks, find purpose and grow into thoughtful communicators and leaders. Maryrose believes debate is less about winning and more about understanding others, a lesson that prepares students for college, career, and life. Watch Maryrose’s story.
Explore more experiences and hear from students and educators across the DPS at dpsk12.org/stories.
To enroll in a Denver school for the 2026–27 school year, the DPS SchoolChoice enrollment window runs Dec. 2 to Jan. 20. Equity is at the heart of SchoolChoice, which gives all families access to the schools that best fit their students, regardless of where they live. DPS simplified the school enrollment process by creating a one-application, one-deadline system. During the SchoolChoice window, families rank their school preferences and submit a single application. Students are then matched to schools based on those preferences, admission priorities and available space — a model designed to maximize the number of students getting their top choices. DPS is one of the only districts in the country where nearly every school participates, and the system has twice been recognized as the No. 1 school choice model in the nation. Learn more about enrolling in DPS.
