Our DPS Weekly
Sept. 29, 2023
Hispanic Heritage Month Feature: Bryant-Webster Student Mariachi Band
Bryant-Webster Dual Language School, which is in its eighth year of the program, is home to the only mariachi band in the district that includes students from elementary and middle school grades. 

“Mariachi music isn’t just played here or in Mexico, you can go anywhere in the world and see mariachi bands. In Germany, in Japan, they have mariachi bands,” said Jacqueline Liñan, Bryant-Webster music teacher and mariachi director. 

“Even the sad songs, you can get into it. Especially if the crowd is really excited doing gritos,” said Freyja, a Bryant-Webster student. Watch the video to hear more from students on why they play mariachi music.
Mentorship Leads Morey Middle School Student to Publish First Book
As a fifth-grader participating in the Community Resources’ Academic Mentors Project, Miles Noble set a goal to publish his debut novel by his 12th birthday. This past summer, Miles met his goal and published his novel, "Bunny and the Stuffed Animal Squad." 

During his mentorship, Miles received guidance from renowned Colorado author and publisher, Jason Henderson. Miles and Jason focused on building foundational skills to empower Miles’ writing journey long after the mentorship concluded. 

Miles will sign and sell copies of "Bunny and the Stuffed Animal Squad" from 10 a.m.-noon on Oct. 15 at the South Pearl Farmers Market. 

His novel is available on Amazon and at some Colorado bookstores. Read more about Miles in this Denver Post story.
EDUCA Podcast: Suicide Prevention
English
Spanish
In this week’s EDUCA Podcast episode, we met district psychologist Grant Van Pelt and Student Safety Coordinator, Dr. Jane Lineman to discuss suicide prevention. Our experts debunk common myths about suicide and discuss resources available to students, families and staff. 

“September is the National Suicide Prevention Month, but every month is suicide prevention month,” said Dr. Lineman. Watch the show in English or Spanish to learn about the importance of suicide prevention. You can also listen in on your favorite podcast platform.
DPS Principal Néstor Bravo Named 2023 CO-CABE Educational Leader of the Year
The Annual CO-CABE Educator and Advocate Awards honor and celebrate those who have contributed significantly to the education of Colorado’s Bilingual Students. Néstor Bravo, Charles M. Schenck Community School Principal, will be named the 2023 Co-CABE Educational Leader of the Year Award recipient at this year’s award gala on Oct. 20. 

This award highlights Bravo’s skill and dedication as a school leader and advocate in a bilingual elementary school. Bravo has a proven ability to inspire emerging bilingual students of various backgrounds to excel, including mentoring students toward graduation and leadership that changes the trajectory of family and individual students. 

Congratulations on your exceptional achievement, Néstor!
Emily Griffith Technical College Students Prepared Dinner for ACTE Conference Guests
On Wednesday, Sept. 20, Emily Griffith Technical College culinary arts students hosted a dinner for the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) as part of their National Postsecondary CTE summit.

Attendees had the opportunity to meet students and faculty and enjoy a four-course meal prepared by the students. Additionally, attendees learned about the culinary arts program and the history and impact of Emily Griffith. 

A portion of the proceeds from the meal will support student scholarships. Congratulations to Chef Tim, Chef Marcus and all the students involved!
Upcoming Youth Substance Use Prevention and Intervention Webinar
Register here for the Youth Substance Use Prevention and Intervention webinar on Wednesday, Oct. 4, from noon-1 p.m. This webinar will explore the important role parents play in preventing substance use with Dr. Christian Thurstone, a board-certified psychiatrist and the medical director of Denver Health’s STEP program. Dr. Thurstone will discuss how substances affect the teen brain and how to intervene and get support for your child.
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