The Denver Public Schools Podcast

Denver Public Schools

Welcome to the DPS Podcast—the official hub for all things Denver Public Schools! Tune in to hear inspiring student success stories, discover family-friendly tips and resources, and stay up-to-date on the latest district news. We’re here to make sure every DPS family has easy access to the information they need. Don't miss out—hit subscribe now and join the conversation!

  1. Jul 6

    Lo Que Toda Familia Debe Saber Sobre la Salud Mental de los Adolescentes - EDUCA DPS Podcast

    ¿Cómo pueden las familias y los educadores apoyar mejor el bienestar mental de los jóvenes? En este episodio de Educa DPS, exploramos las realidades de la salud mental en la adolescencia, los desafíos que enfrentan los estudiantes cada día y las formas prácticas en que los adultos pueden crear entornos seguros y de apoyo donde los jóvenes puedan prosperar. La conversación aborda temas importantes como el estrés, la ansiedad, el trauma, las redes sociales, la identidad, el sentido de pertenencia y la importancia de escuchar sin juzgar. También hablamos sobre cómo las familias, las escuelas y las comunidades pueden trabajar juntas para apoyar a los estudiantes y conectarlos con recursos cuando necesiten ayuda. En este episodio: Qué es la salud mental y el bienestar emocional Los desafíos y factores de estrés que enfrentan los jóvenes hoy en día El impacto del trauma en los estudiantes Redes sociales y salud mental Señales de alerta que pueden indicar que un joven necesita apoyo La importancia de escuchar y crear espacios seguros Cómo apoyar a los estudiantes en casa y en la escuela Recursos de salud mental disponibles para las familias El bienestar mental es una parte fundamental del éxito estudiantil, y muchas veces el apoyo comienza con una conversación sencilla. 🎙️ Educa DPS forma parte de la Red de Podcasts de DPS y ofrece información, recursos y conversaciones diseñadas para apoyar a estudiantes, familias, educadores y miembros de la comunidad. #EducaDPS #SaludMental #BienestarEmocional #SaludMentalJuvenil #EscuelasPublicasDeDenver #BienestarEstudiantil #RecursosParaFamilias #ExitoEstudiantil #Educacion

  2. Jul 6

    What Every Parent Should Know About Teen Mental Health - EDUCA DPS Podcast

    How can families and educators better support the mental well-being of young people? In this episode of Educa DPS, we explore the realities of teen mental health, the challenges students face every day, and the practical ways adults can help create safe, supportive environments where young people can thrive. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including stress, anxiety, trauma, social media, identity, belonging, and the importance of listening without judgment. We also discuss how families, schools, and communities can work together to support students and connect them with resources when they need help. In this episode: Understanding teen mental health and mental well-being Common stressors facing young people today The impact of trauma on students Social media and mental health Warning signs that a young person may be struggling The importance of listening and creating safe spaces Supporting students at home and in school Mental health resources available in the community Mental well-being is an important part of a student's success, and meaningful support often begins with a simple conversation. 🎙️ Educa DPS is part of the DPS Podcast Network and provides information, resources, and conversations that help students, families, educators, and community members succeed. #EducaDPS #MentalHealthAwareness #StudentWellBeing #TeenMentalHealth #DenverPublicSchools #MentalWellness #ParentResources #StudentSuccess #Education

  3. Jun 24

    Teen Mental Health: What Students Wish Adults Understood | Black Voices in Color Podcast

    Behind the smiles, jokes, and social media posts, many students are silently struggling with their mental well-being. In this episode of Black Voices in Color, student hosts have an honest conversation about stress, anxiety, depression, social media, academic pressure, and the challenges many young people face every day. They share personal experiences, discuss how mental health impacts their lives, and explore the difference between everyday stress and more serious mental health concerns. The conversation also examines how adults can better support young people, the impact of social media on self-esteem, and practical ways students can care for their mental well-being. In this episode:  The realities of teen mental health  How stress affects students inside and outside the classroom  Recognizing the signs of anxiety and depression  The impact of social media on self-esteem  Healthy coping strategies and self-care  Why students need trusted adults and support systems  Creating safe spaces for honest conversations Most importantly, this episode reminds students that they are not alone and that asking for support is a sign of strength. 🎙️ Black Voices in Color is part of the DPS Podcast Network and is dedicated to elevating the voices, experiences, and perspectives of Black students across Denver Public Schools. #BlackVoicesInColor #MentalHealth #TeenMentalHealth #StudentVoice #DenverPublicSchools #MentalWellBeing #YouthLeadership #StudentStories #MentalHealthAwareness

  4. Jun 22

    From DPS Student to Denver Clerk and Recorder - EDUCA DPS Podcast

    What role do students and families play in shaping the future of their communities? In this episode of Educa DPS, we explore the importance of civic engagement, voting, and participating in the democratic process. From understanding how local elections work to learning how young people can get involved before they are eligible to vote, this conversation highlights why every voice matters. Listeners will also hear about the journey of a West Denver native who attended Denver Public Schools and went on to serve the community through public service. The discussion covers voter registration, pre-registration for young people, election security, and practical ways students can engage in civic life and make a difference in their neighborhoods. In this episode: Why voting matters How local elections impact daily life Voter registration and pre-registration for young people Civic engagement opportunities for students Election security and voter confidence The power of community involvement Why student voices matter in democracy Whether you're preparing to vote for the first time or looking for ways to become more involved in your community, this episode offers valuable insights into the democratic process and the role each of us plays in shaping the future. 🎙️ Educa DPS is part of the DPS Podcast Network and highlights conversations that inform, inspire, and empower students, families, educators, and community members. #EducaDPS #DenverPublicSchools #CivicEngagement #Voting #Democracy #StudentVoice #CommunityLeadership #Education #Denver

  5. Jun 22

    Cómo las Elecciones Locales Transforman Nuestras Comunidades - EDUCA DPS Podcast

    ¿Qué papel juegan los estudiantes y las familias en el futuro de sus comunidades? En este episodio de Educa DPS, exploramos la importancia de la participación cívica, el voto y el involucramiento en el proceso democrático. Desde comprender cómo funcionan las elecciones locales hasta descubrir cómo los jóvenes pueden participar antes de tener la edad suficiente para votar, esta conversación destaca por qué cada voz importa. Los oyentes también conocerán la historia de un orgulloso egresado de las Escuelas Públicas de Denver que creció en el oeste de Denver y dedicó su carrera al servicio público. La conversación aborda temas como el registro de votantes, el prerregistro para jóvenes, la seguridad electoral y las distintas maneras en que los estudiantes pueden involucrarse en la vida cívica para generar un impacto positivo en sus comunidades. En este episodio:  Por qué es importante votar  Cómo las elecciones locales impactan nuestra vida diaria  Registro y prerregistro de votantes para jóvenes  Oportunidades de participación cívica para estudiantes  Seguridad electoral y confianza en el proceso  El poder de la participación comunitaria  Por qué la voz de los estudiantes importa en la democracia Ya sea que te estés preparando para votar por primera vez o que busques formas de involucrarte más en tu comunidad, este episodio ofrece información valiosa sobre el proceso democrático y el papel que todos desempeñamos en la construcción del futuro. 🎙️ Educa DPS forma parte de la Red de Podcasts de DPS y presenta conversaciones que informan, inspiran y empoderan a estudiantes, familias, educadores y miembros de la comunidad. #EducaDPS #EscuelasPublicasDeDenver #ParticipacionCivica #Voto #Democracia #VozEstudiantil #LiderazgoComunitario #Educacion #Denver

  6. Jun 17

    Black Voices in Color - Student Voice and Leadership

    What happens when students are given a seat at the table? In this episode of Black Voices in Color, student hosts explore the power of student voice, leadership, and advocacy in Denver Public Schools. Through an engaging conversation about leadership development, civic engagement, and educational equity, students discuss how young people can move from identifying challenges to creating meaningful change in their schools and communities. The episode highlights the importance of ensuring all students—especially those whose voices have historically been underrepresented—have opportunities to influence decisions that affect their education and future. Students also share their own experiences, perspectives, and advice for peers who want to get involved and make a difference. In this episode: Why student voice matters Developing leadership skills and confidence Civic engagement and advocacy Youth-adult partnerships Creating positive change in schools Building community through shared experiences Advice for students who want to make an impact Leadership doesn't begin after graduation—it starts with having the courage to speak up and get involved. 🎙️ Black Voices in Color is part of the DPS Podcast Network and is dedicated to elevating the voices, experiences, and perspectives of Black students across Denver Public Schools. #BlackVoicesInColor #DenverPublicSchools #StudentVoice #StudentLeadership #BlackExcellence #YouthLeadership #Education #StudentAdvocacy #DPSVoices

  7. Jun 15

    Justin Simmons Reflects on Retirement, Purpose, and Giving Back to Denver - The DPS Marrero Moment

    What does it take to achieve greatness on and off the field? In this special episode of the Marrero Moment, Denver Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero sits down with former Denver Broncos All-Pro safety Justin Simmons for an inspiring conversation about leadership, education, resilience, family, and community impact. Justin reflects on the lessons that shaped his journey from South Florida to Boston College and ultimately the NFL. He shares how setbacks in school taught him the importance of discipline, why education became his greatest investment, and how the support of his "village" helped him overcome challenges along the way. The conversation also explores Justin's recent retirement from professional football, his commitment to serving the Denver community through the Justin Simmons Foundation, and why he believes every young person has the potential to achieve more than they ever imagined. Whether you're a student, parent, educator, athlete, or community leader, this episode offers valuable lessons about humility, perseverance, and the power of giving back. In this episode:  Justin Simmons' journey to the NFL  The importance of education and academic success  Overcoming setbacks and learning from failure  Life after football and retirement  Building strong communities through service  Advice for students and future leaders  The partnership between the Justin Simmons Foundation and Denver Public Schools Foundation Subscribe for more conversations highlighting the students, educators, leaders, and stories shaping Denver Public Schools. #DenverPublicSchools #JustinSimmons #DenverBroncos #Leadership #Education #MarreroMoment #DPSStories #StudentSuccess #CommunityImpact #Denver

  8. May 29

    DPS SnapShots: Celebrating a Year of Success and Looking Ahead to Summer

    1. CMAS and CoAlt Family Portal Now Open Colorado Measures of Academic Success, or CMAS, score reports for the 2025–26 school year will be released online through the Colorado Department of education’s Family Portal.  On Friday, May 29: Initial student performance summaries will be accessible via the Family Portal.By June 15: Final, detailed performance results — including peer comparisons, strengths and areas for growth — will be added to the portal. And In Fall 2026: Paper reports are sent to your child’s tested school for distribution to families.For more information, we have a guide for how to look up scores online linked in our shownotes: Family Portal Guidance Folder. Next up is a story about DPS students who are graduating TWICE 2. A Diploma and a Degree - The DPS Students Who Are Graduating Twice https://youtu.be/oOEgv4CnxaU 133 DPS students in the class of 2026 received their Associate's degree in addition to a high school diploma. That's two years of college while still in high school. We are so proud of our graduates for their dedication. Head to our shownotes to watch a video about Orion Connally, a Northeast Early College graduate, explain how he did it and how others can too! 3. Our third story is about E-Bike Safety Tips from the Denver Police Department E-Bike Safety Tips from Denver Police Department As we head into summer break, the Denver Police Department would like to remind parents and students how to be safe when riding e-bikes and bicycles and avoid potential citations. Riders should always  Wear a helmet.Ride in the roadway, as it is illegal and unsafe to ride on the sidewalk.Obey traffic signs and traffic laws.Ride in the same direction as the traffic is traveling and do not cut in front of vehicles.Go the posted speed limit.Wear reflective gearEnsure front and back lights work.Be predictable and use appropriate hand signals.Secure bicycle with U-lock fastened to an immovable object.ATVs, go-carts and other off-road vehicles are prohibited from Denver’s roadways, sidewalks and parks. The Denver Police Department wishes everyone a fun and safe summer. 4. I Heart to Read with Justin Simmons and Rachel Garcia - A DPS Literacy Celebration DPS recently kicked off a new literacy initiative with a high-energy celebration focused on inspiring a love of reading among young scholars. Superintendent Dr. Alex Marrero was joined by former Denver Broncos All-Pro safety Justin Simmons and Mexican Cultural Center representative Rachel Garcia for a day filled with reading, dancing and joyful learning experiences.  The initiative aims to connect students with high-quality, grade-level texts while bringing the community into classrooms to help ignite excitement and passion for reading.  Head to our shownotes to Watch the recap video: https://youtu.be/w7yTVhTmlr4  5. Tasty Food Free Summer Meal Program Tasty Food’s free summer meal program will kick off Monday, June 1! All Denver youth, ages 3-18, are welcome to stop by any participating sites to enjoy free and wholesome meals, Monday-Friday between the dates of June 1-August 21. Participating sites are linked in our shownotes ( English and Spanish). You can also visit the Tasty Food website for more information.

About

Welcome to the DPS Podcast—the official hub for all things Denver Public Schools! Tune in to hear inspiring student success stories, discover family-friendly tips and resources, and stay up-to-date on the latest district news. We’re here to make sure every DPS family has easy access to the information they need. Don't miss out—hit subscribe now and join the conversation!