Slice of Pi 2015

An open house like no other, this year’s Slice of Pi showcased an incredible array of student work, from advanced robotics and water-purification demos to a lively poetry slam and dramatic theatre scenes to the sweet sounds of a choir and the beat of an African drum. Wow, these are middle-school students and high-schoolers? On Friday, May 1, parents, teachers and supporters gathered at Stapleton High School to spotlight students from three DSST campuses: Stapleton, Cole and Green Valley Ranch. At the 11th annual event, guests had the opportunity to stroll from room to room catching demos and performances at their leisure. Footers Catering stations made the evening even tastier with three grab-and-go stations, followed by dessert.

Cole High School poetry slam team

Operating  10 schools on six campuses of economic and cultural diversity, Denver School of Science and Technology (DSST) has an impressive record of focusing on young technology students and entrepreneurs to prepare them for college, as well as life. College acceptance rates for DSST seniors have been 100 percent for the past eight consecutive years.

This year’s honorees, Steve and Susan Halstedt, were on hand to say hello before being recognized on stage during a brief program. CEO Bill Kurtz emceed the program with featured student speakers from a graduating eighth-grader to college-bound seniors, all telling their story with sincerity and gratitude. Marciela Reyes’ inspiring story had the crowd on its feet. This year’s event raised $945,000.

Maricela Reyes is saluted by the crowd after her inspiring story was told onstage.

DSST Public Schools transforms urban public education by eliminating educational inequity and preparing all students for success in college and the 21st century. Its vision statement:

• To become a premiere network of schools in Colorado where 100% of our students meet state standards in math, science and English in our Prep Academy.
• To create an innovative school where students acquire a rigorous academic foundation that they can apply to the community and world around them in meaningful ways.
• To create a rigorous and supportive academic program which will prepare 100% of our students to earn acceptance into the college of their choice and where they gain the necessary skills to successfully earn a college degree.
• To graduate students with character and a sense of civic responsibility of whom a significant percentage will assume leadership positions in an increasingly scientific and technology based society.
• To be an innovative and model school that helps to redefine the American high school experience.

For more information, please visit http://dsstpublicschools.org/.