Climate change is not just an environmental issue—it is a matter of justice, public health, and education. Under Michelle Quattlebaum’s leadership, DPS adopted an ambitious climate justice policy that set forth a bold commitment to sustainability. The district pledged to transition to 100 percent clean electricity by 2030 and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent by 2050, making it one of the most environmentally conscious school districts in the nation. This groundbreaking initiative did not go unnoticed, as it led to DPS being recognized by the President of the United States and the Environmental Protection Agency for its commitment to environmental stewardship. Students from DPS had the opportunity to visit the White House and meet with Vice President Kamala Harris and EPA Administrator Michael Regan, demonstrating how school districts can be at the forefront of the climate movement. This policy not only ensures a greener future but also incorporates climate education into the curriculum, preparing students to become leaders in sustainability and environmental advocacy.

The rising threat of gun violence in schools is an issue that cannot be ignored, and Michelle Quattlebaum has worked diligently to ensure that DPS takes a proactive stance on student safety. Under her leadership, the district launched a continuous gun safety awareness communication strategy that provides resources, training, and education for students, staff, and families. By fostering partnerships with community organizations, law enforcement, and violence prevention advocates, DPS has strengthened its approach to identifying warning signs and preventing potential tragedies. The district has implemented programs that teach students about responsible firearm storage, conflict resolution, and the importance of reporting concerning behavior. Through open dialogue and education, DPS is committed to creating an environment where students not only feel safe but are also empowered to take an active role in their own well-being and the safety of their peers.

Schools are more than just places of learning—they are vital community centers that provide essential resources to families. Under Michelle Quattlebaum’s leadership, DPS expanded Community Hubs, ensuring that students and their families have access to food pantries, job training, healthcare services, and housing assistance. These hubs provide a lifeline for families in need, offering wraparound services that address the economic and social challenges that impact student success. By expanding the role of schools as community anchors, DPS is helping to break down barriers that prevent students from thriving. Michelle’s vision for public education is one where schools serve as centers of opportunity—not just for students, but for entire families.

Newly arrived immigrant and refugee students face unique challenges as they adjust to life in a new country, and Michelle Quattlebaum has worked tirelessly to advocate for policies that support them. Her efforts at the federal level resulted in a pause on standardized testing requirements for students who are new to the U.S., recognizing that it is unfair to assess students in a language they have not yet mastered. She also fought for increased funding to provide bilingual education, social services, and workforce access for immigrant families. These efforts ensure that new-to-country students are not left behind but instead given the resources they need to thrive academically and socially. By advocating for equitable policies at the national level, Michelle has reaffirmed DPS’s commitment to being a welcoming, inclusive district for all students, regardless of where they come from.

Education is the foundation of opportunity, and Michelle Quattlebaum has prioritized improving student achievement across all grade levels. Through targeted interventions, enhanced curriculum development, and increased access to academic resources, DPS has made measurable progress in student performance. Initiatives such as expanded tutoring programs, culturally responsive teaching strategies, and personalized learning plans have helped more students succeed in the classroom. Additionally, under Michelle’s leadership, DPS has seen an increase in graduation rates as more students are provided with pathways to post-secondary success. Whether through college preparatory programs, vocational training, or dual enrollment opportunities, DPS is ensuring that every graduate leaves high school with a clear plan for their future. By focusing on both academic rigor and student support systems, Michelle has helped create an environment where all students—regardless of background—have the opportunity to achieve their goals.

In a city as diverse as Denver, language should never be a barrier to a child’s education or a parent’s ability to advocate for their student. Yet for many years, non-English-speaking families struggled to access critical information about their children’s schooling due to a lack of translation services and inclusive communication policies. Michelle Quattlebaum led the charge in institutionalizing language justice within DPS, ensuring that district-wide communications, parent engagement opportunities, and school resources are available in multiple languages. This policy guarantees that non-English-speaking families have equitable access to decision-making processes, helping to foster a stronger relationship between schools and communities. By prioritizing language equity, DPS has demonstrated a commitment to ensuring that every family, regardless of their native language, can fully participate in their child’s education. This initiative is not just about translation—it is about recognizing and valuing the voices of all families in the educational system.

Fair wages for educators and school staff are critical to maintaining a high-quality public school system. Michelle Quattlebaum fought to ensure that all DPS employees, from custodians to food service workers to paraprofessionals, receive a living wage that reflects the rising cost of living in Denver. Under her leadership, DPS raised the minimum wage to $20 per hour, marking a significant victory for the district’s workforce. This increase ensures that dedicated school employees—many of whom are parents—are paid fairly for their essential roles in supporting students. Higher wages not only improve job satisfaction and employee retention but also help attract skilled professionals who are committed to the success of DPS students. Michelle understands that when educators and staff are supported financially, they are better able to focus on their primary mission: helping students thrive.

Dyslexia is one of the most prevalent learning disabilities in the country, affecting approximately one in five students. For far too long, children with dyslexia struggle in silence, often misidentified as having behavioral issues or left to fall behind due to a lack of proper support. Recognizing the urgency of early intervention, Michelle Quattlebaum led the effort to implement mandatory dyslexia screenings across Denver Public Schools. By requiring all students to be screened for dyslexia, the district is ensuring that children who need literacy interventions receive them as early as possible. This policy is a significant step toward closing the literacy gap, providing specialized instruction, and empowering students with learning differences to succeed academically and beyond. Through targeted reading programs and teacher training, DPS is now better equipped to support students with dyslexia, giving them the tools they need to build confidence and achieve their full potential.

Civic education is a fundamental pillar of democracy, and young people should be empowered to participate in the electoral process before they even graduate high school. Under Michelle Quattlebaum’s leadership, DPS has embedded voter registration opportunities directly into the student experience, ensuring that all eligible students have the chance to register before they leave high school. By collaborating with nonpartisan organizations, the district has created opportunities for students to learn about their voting rights, understand the impact of elections, and take an active role in shaping their futures. This initiative is about more than just increasing voter turnout—it is about cultivating a sense of civic responsibility among students and ensuring they understand that their voices matter. By making voter registration a priority, DPS is helping to create a generation of informed, engaged citizens who are ready to participate in the democratic process.