In July, Denver residents and the City of Denver decided that the once Byers Middle School would remain a school, rather than selling the land for residential redevelopment. Byers Middle School was closed due to under-enrollment.

When the once Byers School reopens, it will be called the Denver School of Science and Technology (DSST). It will not only bring new educational opportunities to the West Washington Park neighborhood but other students from around Denver will also benefit.

The DSST was originally granted a charter for a school in Stapleton by the Denver Public School board.  At that time, in 2009, it was decided that it would be allowed for two more DSST schools to open in Denver. In July of 2011, the DPS board voted to make Byers one of those locations. The schools mission is: to provide an environment that would allow all students to excel at the state standards in math, science, and English skills. Since their induction, DSST has repeatedly produced some of the highest scores in statewide testing. DSST’s curriculum and environment also work s to install a sense of civic pride in their students – something that should benefit the community in the long run.

The good news is that DSST is open for any student of Denver Public Schools to enroll. DSST works with Denver Public Schools School Choice Program to allow students to pick where they would like to get their education and then they can enter in to a lottery that will decide who is enrolled in which school.

It is still uncertain is to when the school will be ready and educate more Denver students.  The facility closed in 2004, and has an estimated $10 million in renovations necessary before it can bring in students.

To helpful site to learn more about Denver school ratings is GreatSchools.org.  If you are hoping to live near this new Denver school view Denver homes in the Wash Park neighborhood on COhomefinder.com.  Stay tuned, 8z and the Wash Park Pulse team will let you know more when there’s news about the school’s opening date and more!