Denver School of Science

1
Denver School of Science TechnologyFoundations
of Success

• Presentation at
• The Philanthropy Roundtables
• Quantum Leaps Boosting Math Science Education
• September 26, 2006

2
Presentation Overview

• DSST Overview
• Key Components of DSST Model
• Challenges to Replication
• Important Lessons for Donors

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DSST Snapshot

• 340 Students (9-11)
• 42 Free/Reduced Lunch
• _at_ 1/3, 1/3, 1/3 Ethnic Diversity
• Core Liberal Arts Curriculum/ Science Focus
• One-to-One Lap Top Program

4
DSST Snapshot

• First Two Years Highest Overall Math Scores
  in Denver Public Schools and 2nd in
  Reading and Writing
• Only Denver HS to Earn Significant
  Improvement rating on state test scores
• 10th Grade 5th in CO in math, 21st in
  writing.
• Other top 35 high schools in math and writing
  averaged FRL count of 11

5
Clear and Ambitious Vision

• 100 Meeting State Standards
• 100 Going to a 4 Year College
• 100 Graduating from a 4 Year College

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Culture of Success

• Shared Core Values
• High Expectations for All
• Daily Rigor Systems
• Care and Accountability

7
Hiring Outstanding People

• A People Business
• Hiring High Achievers
• Strong Math and Science Backgrounds

8
Systems of Excellence

• Make Good Teachers Extraordinary
• Core Pedagogical Practices
• Data Driven Instruction
• Cultural Systems

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A Balanced Math Approach

• A Belief in the Foundational Skills
• Balanced Pedagogy
• High Expectations Pre-Calculus Finish

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The Right Science Sequence

• Physics, Chemistry, Biology
• Science Skills
• Math Relevance

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Internship and Electives

• Application of Learning
• Real World Connections
• Increasing the Pipeline

12
Replication Challenges

• Student Preparedness
• Societal Commitment
• Staffing
• Facilities
• Development of Key Systems

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Important Lessons for Donors

• Invest only in Excellence
• Understand Educational Politics
• Identify systems/cultures of excellence
• Develop long term investment partners