Because every student matters, together we can reach just one more!

Hi Friend!

I was answering questions about the school at an event when someone approached me and asked, “So, is this a school for bad kids?”

I’ll admit, her question caught me a bit off guard, and it took me a few moments to regain my composure. But it made me think with respect and adoration of the students who sit in our classrooms and walk through the hallways at our three campuses.

Our students aren’t bad. They are brave.

I remembered the sweet smile of one of our homeless, pregnant juniors sitting in my kitchen, eating homemade pancakes before school. Then, I replayed in my head a conversation with a senior who recounted the chaotic mornings in her abuse-riddled house. And I smiled, remembering how her staff-advocate sat with her as she bravely called child protective services to protect her younger siblings.

What our students deal with daily many of us will never face in our lifetime.

“I was 13 years old the first time I was trafficked.”

“My first criminal charges were for stealing donuts at the age of 9. I knew it was wrong, but I was so hungry, and we didn’t have any money. I didn’t know what else to do.”

“I’m sorry I’m late for school. My dad got deported over the weekend and my mom lost her job because she can’t stop crying. We needed money to make rent so I worked till 1:00 am and accidentally overslept.”

“I never had anyone tell me I was worth fighting for until I came to DSS.”

As I responded to her question, I teared up a little. “You know, each of our students’ stories are unique. And yes, some of them may not have made the best choices in their past. But overall, I’d say we have a school full of survivors, dreamers, and in a lot of cases, teenagers who have had to grow up way too fast.”

They’re not bad… we’re all just learning. After all, isn’t that what school is for?”

The Denver Street School is all about the whole student: from filling their hungry bellies to helping them navigate a messy home life to walking them towards their diploma. When you partner with us, you’re standing up for those who need it the most.

This giving season, please consider the impact your generous support would make.

DSS is a safe place for students struggling in school and life, and with your help, we’re making a measurable impact in their lives.

Kacy Leyba, East Campus Principal