Mustangs Unite!

Our most recent LT meeting led to a closer analysis of our questionnaire results. Our team agreed that the #1 asset that DA students share is the feeling that they belong here. An extension of this feeling of belonging comes a sense of bravery and willingness to "try" to learn. The balance of the equation is the trust they gain in the process, the feeling of inclusion that occurs naturally when participating and ultimately the student voice that develops as the result of their success- all essential components of a successful DA student. When students take chances both socially and academically they gain a voice in their classroom. With this new found empowerment students become the "owner" of their own education. The beauty of Denver Academy is that collectively we value the student as the individual. We provide opportunities for creative exploration and alternative avenues of academic expression. DA functions best when it recognizes the value of our students uniqueness and then capitalizes on the momentum of their success. Continuing to value our students is an essential component of a successful transition to a UHS. In order to ensure that students trust in the process of a unified student body it is imperative that we give them an active role in the school's transition. As a learning team we plan to work closely with Mustang Connections to develop activities for current Juniors in both the Progressive and Preparatory divisions . It is our belief that by empowering these students with a voice in the transition to a Unified High School we will further their trust in Denver Academy as a credible institution of education.