Dear DSST Staff,
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.
Your School Director has detailed logistics for your campus, especially those of you on campuses shared with other DPS schools. We do anticipate demonstrators at several shared campuses and are working to ensure we maintain safe and respectful exterior spaces for families, DSST staff and demonstrators alike. School leadership teams and members of the Home Office are here to help in navigating any issues that come up during the strike. As usual, please contact your School Director first with any questions or concerns and they will loop in other appropriate parties as necessary.
I want to thank you again for your hard work and dedication to Denver students, and continued focus on our mission despite these turbulent events. 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. We will continue to do everything we can to keep you informed and equipped to best support students and families.
Best,
Bill