Your guide to the SchoolChoice lottery and DSST enrollment

Navigating the SchoolChoice process is an important step in securing the best educational experience for your child. This FAQ will guide you through key details about the lottery system and how to apply to DSST Public Schools for the upcoming school year.

The SchoolChoice process allows families to rank their preferred schools within Denver Public Schools (DPS), including DSST’s exceptional STEM-focused schools. This equitable lottery system ensures all students have the opportunity to attend a school that fits their needs.

The process involves three steps:

• Explore: Research schools to find the best fit for your child.
• Apply: Submit a SchoolChoice application online, ranking your preferred schools
  • DPS application
  • AST application
• Match: DPS uses a lottery system to match students to schools based on their rankings, school capacity, and priority preferences. DSST operates a lottery for applications to Aurora Science & Tech.

• Most students in transitions grades (5th to 6th and 8th to 9th)
• Students who are transferring schools or new to DSST

Round 1 of SchoolChoice is open now and closes at 4 p.m. on February 18, 2025. Applications submitted during this window have the best chance of matching with a preferred school.

No, your rankings simply reflect your preferences and do not affect your chances. Schools cannot see how you ranked them. Matches are based on your priority group for the school and your lottery number, ensuring a fair process.

We recommend listing multiple schools to keep your options open. Families can rank up to 12 schools on the DPS SchoolChoice application in Round 1. Be sure to include only schools you are willing to attend. If your child doesn’t match with any of your listed choices, they will automatically be enrolled in your neighborhood school.

• Matches are determined by the following factors:
  • Your rankings on the SchoolChoice application.
  • School capacity and available space.
  • Priority preferences, such as having a sibling enrolled or living within the school’s boundary.

No, listing just one school won’t improve your odds. It’s better to include all schools you’re interested in to maximize your chances of securing a match that works for your family.

After the deadline, DPS processes applications and matches students to schools. Families are notified of their matches in mid-March. Once results are released, you must confirm your enrollment to secure your child’s spot.

AST application results will be shared in late February.

Visit the DPS SchoolChoice website or check out this helpful DSST enrollment guide. We’re here to support you every step of the way!