Dear Team DPS,
We all know that Black students in DPS can -- and do -- achieve at high levels, especially when they have the opportunities and support needed to excel. However, we also know that we need to improve our systems of instruction and support in order to accelerate the trajectory of success for our Black students.
I am pleased to announce the creation of the DPS Black Student Success (BSS) Team. This new initiative is aimed at improving the educational experience of our Black students in DPS. This team will be led by Michael Atkins, who currently serves as principal at Stedman Elementary and has demonstrated outstanding commitment to Black students' success throughout his tenure as an educator.
The BSS Team will focus on analyzing the root causes of disparities in achievement and opportunities, as well as identifying the barriers that hinder the progress of our Black students. The BSS Team will collaborate with a small cohort of schools with impactful numbers of Black students. As a result of this work, we seek to increase graduation rates, improve grade-level performance, boost enrollment in rigorous classes, and ensure that our Black students feel safe and supported in our schools.
The BSS Team will ground their support to schools in the history of Black experience in DPS and the Bailey Report. By learning from the history and experiences of our Black students, families, and educators in DPS, we aim to meet the expectations outlined in the Black Excellence Resolution and ultimately increase Black student achievement. The BSS Team will highlight Black excellence in DPS, share best practices, and collaborate with schools and departments to expand excellence throughout the school system.
Our goal is to announce a similar structure of support for our Latino students next year following the release of the La Raza report this winter.
This initiative is an essential step towards ensuring that every learner, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive. The success of our Black students is integral to the overall success of DPS. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable educational environment for all our students.
In collaboration,
Dr. Alex Marrero
Superintendent
