History

Former Denver Mayors Federico Peña and Wellington Webb, at the request of DPS’ then-superintendent, founded A+ Denver in 2006 to be an independent citizens-based organization working to make DPS a district characterized by excellence in every respect. A+ was originally comprised of more than 100 citizen leaders, including community and business leaders, parents and representatives from local foundations and higher education. These citizens worked on our initial three committees to consider district conditions and performance and recommend improvements. Colorado Nonprofit Development Center continues to serve as our fiscal sponsor.

  • The A+ Finance & Facilities subcommittee was instrumental in providing criteria that the district used in determining which schools to close, realign and reprogram. 

  • The A+ Denver Plan subcommittee reviewed the Denver Plan, identified gaps and provided recommendations for follow-up. 

  • Through its volunteer base, A+ has broadened the awareness and involvement in DPS beyond the traditional stakeholders and successfully used media to make more people in Denver aware of the successes of and challenges to school reform in DPS. 

  • In 2008, A+ conducted an analysis of ProComp, then made a public report in favor of the district’s proposed reforms, which helped resolve a dispute that could have led to a failed contract negotiation with the local teacher union.

  • In 2009, A+ Denver, with its partners the Colorado Children’s Campaign and the Metropolitan Organization for People, issued the first annual State of DPS report.