Friday night we celebrated our graduating class of 2022 at the Denver Botanic Gardens. We are so proud of our seniors and grateful for the staff, families, and community members who braved the spring snowstorm to make this even possible. I’d like to note the following accomplishments and strengths shown by our DCIS graduates:
Some of the graduates have faced increased depression and anxiety connected to isolation and loneliness and have faced this with grace and honesty.
This class has earned $1.3 million dollars in scholarships (AND COUNTING)! These include our first-ever Posse Scholarship awardee, a Daniels scholar, and a Greenhouse scholar! This is an increase of over $800,000 from the previous year!
Some of the graduates faced the unimaginable pain of seeing a parent deported.
Thirty of the graduates were awarded the Seal of Biliteracy! One of our graduates earned this in TWO languages (Italian and Spanish). This is an increase of 20 from the previous year.
The majority of our graduates have worked consistently over the past two years for 20+ hours/week to help support your families - this is on top of your academic pursuits.
NINE of our DCIS graduates are the first generation in their family to graduate from high school!
One of our graduates is a DREAMer, an undocumented student pursuing higher education.
Two of our graduates have faced homelessness in the past two years and remained engaged with school despite this obstacle.
All of them - every last graduate - are survivors of the immense challenge of remote learning and the isolation that comes with this.
Some of our graduates are grieving the death of a family member.
We look forward to seeing you at additional celebrations this week, including Continuation Thursday night and our Mural Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Friday afternoon. As a reminder, the last day that students will attend school is Friday, May 27, 2022, except for the following students:
8th graders who continue on Thursday do not need to return Friday for academics. They are invited to return for our Field Day fun in the afternoon Friday.
Students who are not passing their classes by Friday are required to return on Tuesday, June 1st, 2022 to complete course recovery and competency work. Teachers will be letting these students know if they are expected to return.
High school students and families will receive a phone call by the end of this week from their student’s counselor if their child is required to come to summer school beginning on June 13, 2022. Summer school runs through the month of June, Monday through Friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Course recovery is provided by a team of DCIS teachers and administrators. Breakfast and lunch will be provided and attendance will ensure students do not start their year behind in credits in August.
BIG thank you to everyone who made this year's prom memorable for our students!
Senior Spotlights
Big congratulations to the Class of 2022! We're so excited for you and this next part of your journey. Check out this year's Senior Spotlights created by DCIS students - View here.
It included traditional Cambodian, Polynesian, Filipino, Japanese, Chinese, and Thai cultural performances, arts and crafts, food, and local community groups.
IMPORTANT UPDATES
Spring Finals Week Calendar — May and June 2022 Please check out the spring finals week schedules below for May 23-27 and May 30-June 3.
If you have any questions, call our main office at 720-423-9000. Thank you!
Support our DCIS Chair Fundraiser! Our ‘Chair Campaign’ is an opportunity for students, staff, alumni, and supporters to literally have their own seat in our beloved auditorium.
How to Support: Donate Online: Make a contribution via the DCIS PTSA PayPal: https://bit.ly/DCISBaker_ChairCampaign. Please specify “Auditorium Seats” in the notes to seller section Mail Direct Checks: Make a direct check contribution made out to ‘DCIS PTSA’ subject Auditorium Chairs, mailed to 574 W 6th Ave, Denver, CO 80203.
DCIS High School
Graduation Photos Pictures from graduation by Lifetouch will be available soon usingthis link!
The photographer took a photograph of every senior after they walked across the stage and received their diploma.
DCIS 6th Grade Academy — August 2022 All Sixth Grade incoming families please clickHEREfor program details and register for DCIS' 6th Grade Academy scheduled for August 10-12, 2022 from 8am-12pm. It is expected that all 2022-23 school year 6th graders attend the 6th Grade Academy.
If your student is interested in joining, please email Jennifer Killmer or sign up HERE.
DCIS 9th Grade Academy — August 2022 All Ninth Grade incoming families please take a moment to read the letter below. This year's 9th Grade Academy will take place on August 8th from 8-11 AM, and August 10-12th from 8AM-12:20PM at DCIS Baker.
Class of 2026 Rising Freshmen: 'Ready for 2026' Opportunity — Sign Up Today! DCIS-Baker is one of the select schools that is running an awesome three-week summer program to best prepare next year's freshmen for the challenges and opportunities of high school. Please click HEREfor the invitation letter in English and HEREfor the invitation letter in Spanish. If you have any questions please reach out to Assistant Principal Courtney Wickham at courtney_wickham@dpsk12.orgor Program Lead Camay Hunter atcamay_hunter@dpsk12.net. Note: this is a separate opportunity than the traditional 'Ninth Grade Academy' that runs closer to the start of school.
DCIS Summer School Information DCIS Baker is pleased to announce that we will have our own summer school this June to support our students in recovering credits from previously failed or incomplete courses. Summer school will run from June 13 to June 30.
Priority will be given to Class of 2023 and Class of 2024 students with some seats also available for the Class of 2025. Ms. Wickham--with the support of school counselors and high school advisors--will be contacting families for this by Wednesday of this week so you can know the details and expectations of this opportunity. Our very own math and literacy teachers will be the support staff at our summer school. If you have any immediate questions please reach out to Ms. Wickham or your child's school counselor.
DCIS Travel Center: Looking for Host Families This July!! Ms. Wickham, Travel Center Coordinator, is working with the American Exchange Project (AEP), the nation’s first-ever domestic exchange program that sends recently graduated High School Seniors on free trips to one of our many partner towns around the US during the summer. The program was created to help bring together our divided country through domestic cross-cultural youth exchanges.
This is the first year AEP is coming to Denver, and this summer from July 16 - July 23, a group of young Americans from across the country will be in Denver. I invite you to join us by becoming an AEP Host Family.
Please consider joining AEP by opening your home during this time to one of the traveling students and act as their local family. As part of minimizing burdens on our Host Families, AEP offers a $200 stipend for that week’s transportation and food costs. Please let us know you’re ready to help by signing up via Host Family Signup Page.
Please reach out to Ms. Wickham with any specific questions.
Opt-In Window for 2022-23 Transportation Open Now through June 30 The Transportation Opt-In Program for the 2022-23 school year is now live on the Parent Portal. Opt-in instructions are availablehere. Please ensure families of eligible students opt-in via Parent Portal by June 30. If families do not opt-in by June 30, we will plan our bus routes without their student. This doesn’t change their student’s eligibility, but may cause a delay in service.
Career and Technical Education Certification (CTE) Student Interest Form DCIS Students! Please fill out this CTE student interest form. We are looking for your feedback and hoping to understand what certifications you would be most interested in. Thank you!
KEY DATES
DCIS 8th Grade Continuation — Thursday, May 26, 2022 We are thrilled to celebrate our 8th grade students at our continuation ceremony on Thursday, May 26th at 5:00 PM. Here are some key details to know:
Due to rising COVID numbers and family desire for an increased seating capacity, we will be holding our ceremony OUTSIDE in the DCIS Courtyard. Please plan accordingly for weather possibilities and complete this survey compiled by one of our DCIS parents.
We do not have chairs for all guests - please bring your own chairs and blankets.
A reception and art show will follow the event in the gym and cafeteria.
If you need more tickets beyond the four provided to your child, please emailandrea_macias@dpsk12.org to arrange for additional tickets.
Once your 8th grader has continuated on the 26th, they are finished with school for the year and need not return on the 27th unless they want to participate in Field Day in the afternoon.
Community Mural Unveiling & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony — Friday, May 27, 2022
Join us for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony and formal unveiling of our DCIS community mural on Friday, May 27, 2022 at 3:30 PM. Meet us at the front of our building to hear from the local artists, students, and staff who came together to co-create this beautiful piece, titled “Knowledge Creates Transformation”, for our community. More details here.
Get free at-home COVID-19 tests today! Thanks for your help keeping our students, teachers, staff, and community safe! Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order free at-home COVID-19 tests. The tests are completely free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days.
Judi’s House for Grieving Children and Families We are excited to let you know about the FREE servicesJudi’s Housewill be offering: Caring for Grieving Kids virtual workshops for parents and guardians.
FREE Mental Health Support for Colorado Youth ClickHERE
What can parents do to prevent bullying? TIPShere!
Do you need to talk to your counselor?
Fill out the form below and your counselor will get in touch with you either via email, phone or Google Meet.
Safe2Tell Colorado: 877-542-7233, https://safe2tell.org Note that DCIS staff and DPS Safety & Security and DPD monitor Safe2Tell 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. This is the quickest way to reach out if you have safety concerns that are imminent.
Colorado Crisis and Support Line: 844-493-8255, or text TALK to 38255
STUDENT SERVICES NEWS
Class of 2022 - Seniors
Your School Counselors wish you the very best as you embark upon your journey beyond high school. We hope you are deeply proud of yourself as we know the last few years were challenging, yet each of you persevered. We’ll miss you and please come back to visit! It’s time for you to soar, Phoenixes.
Parents & Guardians: Congratulations and thank you for sharing your student(s) with us.
Class of 2023 - Juniors
Balarat Leadership Opportunity
Are you interested in working with our district’s 5th grade students at Balarat next school year as a high school counselor? You would have the opportunity to earn leadership skills, mentor young students, be in the outdoors and spend a few nights up at a facility with various schools and students. Balarat excursions have become an integral part of the Denver Public Schools’ curriculum. Balarat serves over 430 class, or approximately 10,000 students each year. Program activities are planned for each grade level and for the special interests/needs of each class.
At Balarat, you will…
Live in a dorm with and supervise a group of 5th grade students as a dorm counselor
Help lead evening programs, morning hikes and recreational activities
Help with setup and cleanup during meal times
Participate in a training trip
Please see Ms. Handley in the Counseling Center for more information and to pick up an application.
Leadership Opportunity for DCIS Students YouthRootsis a leadership program that empowers high school students to tackle community issues. Through our program, students respond to emerging needs and build the skills to become change makers now and tomorrow.
Summer Job Opportunity for Students The DPS Facilities Department is looking to hire summer lawn crew employees starting at $16 per hour! The position is open to anyone ages 16 and older. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m., and the season runs approximately from June 6 to August 12 but can vary based on department needs. Please share with your students and encourage them to apply. Questions? Call Kristi Waters at 720-423-4294.
Summer School @ DCIS Details Students who have an “F” or incomplete on their transcripts, please see your School Counselor to learn more about Summer School occurring June 13-30 from 8-12 at DCIS.
Balarat Leadership Opportunity
Are you interested in working with our district’s 5th grade students at Balarat next school year as a high school counselor? You would have the opportunity to earn leadership skills, mentor young students, be in the outdoors and spend a few nights up at a facility with various schools and students. Balarat excursions have become an integral part of the Denver Public Schools’ curriculum. Balarat serves over 430 class, or approximately 10,000 students each year. Program activities are planned for each grade level and for the special interests/needs of each class.
At Balarat, you will…
Live in a dorm with and supervise a group of 5th grade students as a dorm counselor
Help lead evening programs, morning hikes and recreational activities
Help with setup and cleanup during meal times
Participate in a training trip
Please see Ms. Handley in the Counseling Center for more information and to pick up an application.
Leadership Opportunity for DCIS Students YouthRoots is a leadership program that empowers high school students to tackle community issues. Through our program, students respond to emerging needs and build the skills to become change makers now and tomorrow.
Summer Job Opportunity for Students The DPS Facilities Department is looking to hire summer lawn crew employees starting at $16 per hour! The position is open to anyone ages 16 and older. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m., and the season runs approximately from June 6 to August 12 but can vary based on department needs. Please share with your students and encourage them to apply. Questions? Call Kristi Waters at 720-423-4294.
Summer School @ DCIS Details Students who have an “F” or incomplete on their transcripts, please see your School Counselor to learn more about Summer School occurring June 13-30 from 8-12 at DCIS.
Balarat Leadership Opportunity
Are you interested in working with our district’s 5th grade students at Balarat next school year as a high school counselor? You would have the opportunity to earn leadership skills, mentor young students, be in the outdoors and spend a few nights up at a facility with various schools and students. Balarat excursions have become an integral part of the Denver Public Schools’ curriculum. Balarat serves over 430 class, or approximately 10,000 students each year. Program activities are planned for each grade level and for the special interests/needs of each class.
At Balarat, you will…
Live in a dorm with and supervise a group of 5th grade students as a dorm counselor
Help lead evening programs, morning hikes and recreational activities
Help with setup and cleanup during meal times
Participate in a training trip
Please see Ms. Handley in the Counseling Center for more information and to pick up an application.
Leadership Opportunity for DCIS Students YouthRootsis a leadership program that empowers high school students to tackle community issues. Through our program, students respond to emerging needs and build the skills to become change makers now and tomorrow.
Summer Job Opportunity for Students The DPS Facilities Department is looking to hire summer lawn crew employees starting at $16 per hour! The position is open to anyone ages 16 and older. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m., and the season runs approximately from June 6 to August 12 but can vary based on department needs. Please share with your students and encourage them to apply. Questions? Call Kristi Waters at 720-423-4294.
Summer School @ DCIS Details Students who have an “F” or incomplete on their transcripts, please see your School Counselor to learn more about Summer School occurring June 13-30 from 8-12 at DCIS.
Leadership Opportunity for Current 8th Grade DCIS Students YouthRootsis a leadership program that empowers high school students to tackle community issues. Through our program, students respond to emerging needs and build the skills to become change makers now and tomorrow.
DCIS Clothing Closet and Food Pantry We are continuing to accept donated food, water, and canned goods, as well as clothing to support students, families, and community. If you'd like to contribute or would like to receive support, please feel free to contact DCIS' School Social Worker, Vincent Scudella at vincent_scudella@dpsk12.org.
Please check outthis listof recommended foods and household items.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Boletín Requests Please send bi-weekly boletín requests (key announcements, community updates, and feedback) to our School Communications Specialist at Stephenie_Lock@dpsk12.org.
Prom 2022 
Donate Online: Make a contribution via the DCIS PTSA PayPal: 
