At DSST Public Schools, we’ve always believed every student deserves access to a transformational education: one that prepares them for college and the 21st century. For more than 20 years, our middle and high schools have helped students thrive in college, careers, and life.
Now, through the growth work of our Strategic Plan 2028, we’ve started asking an important question:
What could be possible for our students if we started our program earlier?
Imagine if students arrived in 6th grade already confident readers.
Imagine if math foundations were strong enough that middle school could go further, faster.
Imagine if every child had structured time to ask questions, build, test ideas, and learn through hands-on discovery.
Why We’re Exploring Elementary Education
Over the past year, DSST’s Elementary Committee, educators, and leaders across the network have come together to explore the beginnings of a vision for a DSST elementary. This work was rooted in listening, learning, and deep reflection on our mission, our data, and our families’ hopes for their children. While we have always been a secondary network, many DSST leaders have deep expertise in elementary education.
A few realities are shaping our exploration:
1) STEM identity starts early, and opportunity gaps start early, too.
Research shows many scientists develop interest in science before middle school. We also know children from underrepresented backgrounds often have less access to early STEM experiences, which can widen STEM identity gaps over time. And in our own community spaces, we hear it directly from young learners: they love science, but don’t always get enough time to explore it.
2) Students are arriving to middle school further behind.
Many DSST students enter 6th grade below grade level, especially in foundational literacy and math. We have responded with strong teaching, targeted supports and excellent programming. And at the same time, we’re seeing students continue to enter middle school with larger achievement gaps, making it harder to fully accelerate in the years that matter for college access.
3) Families want stronger foundations and more continuity.
In our conversations with families, we repeatedly hear a desire for strong academic foundations, consistency, and learning environments that build both confidence and curiosity from a young age.
Families overwhelmingly expressed both enthusiasm for DSST and a clear need for more high-quality elementary options within their neighborhood. Many shared that they are currently traveling outside of their neighborhood to access schools that meet their expectations. As one family shared, “Our local students shouldn’t have to leave our neighborhood to attend a school of their choice.”
Ultimately, if our goal is to prepare STEM leaders of the future, we have a responsibility to explore what it means to start earlier, while honoring childhood and development.
Our Vision for DSST Elementary
The Elementary Committee has developed a clear, child-centered vision:
DSST Elementary will be a high-demand, joyful, STEM-focused K–5 community where every child is known, valued, and empowered to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Beginning in kindergarten:
This vision reflects what we know about how children learn best: through curiosity, play, relationships, and exploration.
With elementary schools, more DSST students can enter middle school believing:
“I’m a reader.”
“I’m a mathematician.”
“I’m a scientist.”
“I can build something that matters.”
Why This Moment Matters
Exploring elementary is part of DSST’s broader growth strategy and our commitment to accelerating student proficiency and long-term outcomes. Starting earlier can help us build stronger academic and social foundations while creating continuity through middle school and beyond, so students are prepared to thrive.
A current DSST parent reflected both excitement and demand, noting, “My son is in 3rd grade, and I feel like I don’t have great options. I would love to send him to a DSST elementary school.”
Where We Are in the Process
Exploring elementary does not mean an immediate opening.
The charter application process with Denver Public Schools (DPS) and Aurora Public Schools (APS) requires significant time and work. We have submitted two applications through DPS’s open call process and are continuing discovery work in both districts. Even if approved, it may take several years before a DSST elementary school opens.
Right now, our focus is on:
Looking Ahead with Care and Curiosity
At DSST, we’re focused on achieving our Big 5 goals, and we know reaching them requires long-term thinking. Exploring elementary is not about growing quickly; it’s about growing responsibly, intentionally, and in partnership with families.
We believe starting earlier could unlock powerful possibilities for children, and we’re excited to keep learning together.
Want to Learn More or Share Your Thoughts?
DSST, in partnership with DPS, is holding a virtual community meeting about DSST elementary schools on Wednesday, May 6. Click here to register and receive reminders for the event!
We welcome questions, ideas, and conversation. If you’d like to learn more about DSST’s Elementary Exploration, please reach out to: Analise Gonzalez Fine at analise.gonzalez@scienceandtech.org.