You have likely heard already that Governor Polis has decided against intervening in the DPS-DCTA contract negotiations. As we understand it, DPS and DCTA are tentatively scheduled to continue bargaining today, but under state law DCTA is now free to proceed with a strike and has stated its intention to begin striking Monday, February 11th. As we have mentioned in earlier communications, DSST is not involved in these negotiations and accordingly, all DSST Schools will remain open, operating with normal schedules and staff. We have no way of knowing how long the strike will last, but regardless of length we expect to operate our schools as usual.
If your student is at a DSST specific campus (Stapleton, Byers, College View) we anticipate things to run as normal on Monday. If your student is at a shared DPS campus (GVR, Noel, Conservatory Green, Cole, Henry) we do anticipate some demonstrators and are working to ensure we maintain safe and respectful exterior spaces for families, staff and demonstrators alike. We have worked with Denver Public Schools to map out a plan for each campus to ensure that students and families will safely enter and leave school each day through the regular school entryways.
Last week we sent a FAQ to all DSST students with answers to many of the questions students were asking teachers. You can find that FAQ here and hope it’s a helpful tool if your student has questions. Please reach out to your child’s school director should you have further questions.
I want to thank you again for your continued support during these turbulent events. We are very focused on ensuring that we provide your children with normalcy and a great DSST education throughout a potential strike. That is very important to us. DSST remains very supportive of all Denver teachers and all Denver schools. As a public education organization, we feel deeply for both sides in the current negotiations and are hopeful bargaining will lead to resolution this weekend.
We will continue to do everything we can to keep you informed as the situation develops.
All my best,
Bill Kurtz, CEO
DSST Public Schools