Dear Centennial Crew,

We continue to chug along with 3rd-5th grade CMAS testing.  This week students engaged in math testing with some language art make up tests sprinkled in, and 5th graders took science as well.  We are very close to the CMAS finish line and I know students and staff are very much looking forward to being done and returning to normal school days.  We’re very proud of students’ focus and determination during testing!

Spring is a super busy time of year and it often leads to change! I’d like to let you know of a few changes on the horizon for the 22-23 school year.  We are very sad to share that Michelle Morton will be moving on from Centennial, moving out of state to start a new adventure.  We are so incredibly grateful for the amazing science program Michelle has built up over the past years.  Our students’ enthusiasm about science has grown exponentially during Michelle’s tenure.  The science room is truly a magical place.  While we know that Ms. Michelle is irreplaceable, we are VERY excited to announce that Andy Haith, a current 3rd grade crew leader will be taking over in the science lab.  Andy will bring his passion for science, a terrific sense of humor, and love of inquiry to the role and will be just the right person to continue scientific learning and adventure at Centennial.  

Lastly, some of you may be aware of  the disappointing DPS Board of Education decision on March 24th regarding the 2022 Executive Limitations. Innovation schools are very thankful to all the individuals that advocated for our Innovation schools during the community process, but our hearts sank on April 11th as we read the 2022 EL-12 Implications Memo we received from DPS. This memo outlines the ways in which most of what used to be flexible in our schools will no longer be and contradicts what was publicly stated and privately assured by the Superintendent and DPS Board- “that, with some exceptions, innovation schools will be able to continue implementing their innovation plans under the new EL.”  Our school communities were told that calendars, schedules, and leadership models would not be impacted. However,  it is clear from   the EL Implication Memo that there will be consequences to the unique programs we’ve created and the empowerment our educators value.  

To learn more about the impacts of the EL Implications please review  this infographic highlighting the factual statements made by the DPS BoE, Superintendent, and DCTA leading up to the EL adoption compared to the actual impact the EL will have on our schools as outlined in the memo we received. Lastly, Sign up for Public Comment and attend the April 21st DPS Board Meeting to share the harmful impact the EL will have on your school’s programming. Sign up deadline for Public Comment is at 5:00 pm today.

Lastly, at CSC last night, we shared data from our focus groups we held with families and students served by IEPs, 504s and health plans. We will post this information soon on the Equity tab of our website. We wanted to create one more opportunity for new families of color and families who were previously unable to join. Please register here to join us. Current Centennial families only.  These virtual focus groups will be offered:

• Thursday, May 12th from 10-11am or 

• Monday, May 16th from 6-7pm

Thanks all! 

 Laura and Emily