At DDES, the city is our campus, and we aim to fully utilize the rich resources of our Denver urban community to support students in achieving academic and personal excellence as they grow into responsible citizens.
Our mission
Our mission is to provide a dynamic and transformative educational experience rooted in Expeditionary Learning principles. We empower students to explore, discover, and grow through hands-on, real-world experiences that ignite their curiosity, deepen their understanding, and cultivate a lifelong love for learning. With a focus on academic excellence, social-emotional development, and individualized support, we inspire students to become resilient, compassionate leaders who are empowered to positively impact their communities and the world.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a beacon of excellence in Expeditionary Learning, where every child thrives academically, socially, and emotionally. We envision a vibrant learning community where students are active participants in their education, engaging in meaningful expeditions that connect classroom learning with real-world challenges and opportunities. Through collaborative inquiry, authentic experiences, and a culture of respect and inclusivity, we nurture the whole child, fostering a deep sense of belonging, purpose, and agency. With a shared commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, we aspire to empower students to reach their fullest potential and become lifelong learners, compassionate leaders, and global citizens of tomorrow.
Who We Are
We are a vibrant and diverse community of educators, learners, and champions of Expeditionary Learning. Rooted in a commitment to excellence, innovation, and student-centered learning, diversity is not just celebrated – it’s our strength.
Our community is a rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, reflecting the unique diversity of downtown Denver and beyond. While we continue to grow and evolve in our journey toward diversity and inclusion, we recognize the importance of fostering an environment where all members feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to thrive.
Guided by the principles of Expeditionary Learning, we embark on a collective adventure of exploration, inquiry, and growth, where curiosity is sparked, challenges are embraced, and every experience is an opportunity for discovery and transformation. Together, we strive to create a dynamic learning environment where students flourish, families are valued partners, and educators are inspired leaders shaping the future of education.
Our History
DDES is a Denver Public Schools K-5 charter school that opened in 2013. Founded by parents, community members and business leaders seeking a high-performing Expeditionary Learning (EL) education school in downtown Denver, DDES serves a diverse range of families who live or work in the city center.
DDES is the first public elementary school in downtown Denver in over 100 years and has been in the Downtown Denver Area Plan for over 30 years. DDES serves a large cross-section of Denver’s elementary students: 25 of 27 DPS zip codes and over 40 Denver metro zip codes. DDES received the Downtown Denver Annual Award in 2014 by the Downtown Denver Partnership for driving economic growth in the city core.