Nov. 4, 2024

Dear DPS Community,

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the uncertainty and heightened emotions many of us may be feeling. Executive Limitation 18 directs me to present a recommendation to the Board of Education to address declining enrollment within our district on Nov. 7. I understand that this news will be impactful for the DPS community but especially for our students and families. 

During this time, it’s essential that we take care of ourselves and each other. Please remember that your well-being is a priority and it’s okay to lean on your community and reach out for support. As we work through this together, I encourage everyone to be mindful of the additional stress we all may be carrying. Let’s give one another grace and remember that compassion and understanding go a long way.

If you have concerns about your child's mental health:

• Listen to your child and acknowledge their feelings.

• Connect with your school's mental health provider.

• For immediate risk, call 911 or take your child to the nearest emergency room.

• Connect with support, such as:

  • Care Solace: Care Solace connects students, staff and their families to care. At no cost to you, Care Solace will quickly and confidentially find available mental health and substance use providers matched to your needs. A multilingual team is available 24/7/365 to help you understand options, call providers on your behalf and schedule an appointment. Connect to care with any coverage including Medicaid, Medicare and sliding scale options for those without insurance. Use Care Match, the self-serve website, to find a provider on your own. Get connected to care today by calling 888-515-0595 or visiting caresolace.com/dps.

  • I Matter Colorado: Connects youth to free counseling sessions. Youth and their parents can visit I Matter Colorado to take a confidential online survey about their mental health and schedule sessions with a licensed behavioral health clinician, primarily online over telehealth. All Colorado youth -- ages 18 or younger and young adults 21 and younger if receiving special education services -- are eligible to receive free services. State law allows youth ages 12 and up to use this platform independently; youth ages 11 and younger will need their parent or guardian’s consent to sign up. 

DPS is dedicated to serving the whole child by ensuring both physical and psychological safety in our schools. Your child's well-being is our top priority. For more information on mental health services, resources and contact information, please visit the DPS Mental Health Services webpage.

While the road ahead may seem uncertain, I know that by supporting one another, we can navigate these challenges and remain a strong, unified community. Together, we will continue creating a future where Every Learner Thrives.

In collaboration,

Dr. Alex Marrero
DPS Superintendent