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Volunteer Services

Volunteer services

Depending on how often you would like to volunteer, we may require you to complete a volunteer background check form. You may select the link to the right to access the background check online forms or contact Volunteer Services for more information.

Volunteer Opportunities

DPS offers employees and community members numerous volunteer opportunities to connect with our students and schools. For more information about individual volunteer opportunities, contact Volunteer Services unless otherwise noted. All volunteer opportunities require a background check.

Chess Club

Chess Clubs are always in need of volunteers. This includes primary mentor-teacher-tutors or assistants who can help with logistics such as equipment or snacks. Remember any amount of time contributed is welcome, whether that is weekly, every other week, monthly, or ad hoc.

When: Chess activities day and times vary by school but primarily meet right after, just before or during school hours.

For more information about chess clubs on specifc DPS campuses, please contact the following schools:

Chess Club Contacts by School

Brown International: 720.424.9250, Tony

Bryant-Webster: 720.424.9170, Joe

Carson: 720-424-9090, Russ W.

CEC Early College: 720.423.6600, Sean & Darryl

Centennial: 720.424.8900 Anne & Benedict

Colfax Elementary: 720.424.8740 Polo & John

Downtown Denver Expeditionary School:  720.424.2350, Adam and Lisa

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College: 720.424.0420 , Michael

DSST Cole: 720.423.9120, Johnny or Phil

DSST College View: 303.524.6374 Jorge & Paul

East: 720.423.8300 Daniel

Edison: 720.424.7780, Floyd et al

Florida Pitt Waller: 720.424.2840, Fred

Kunsmiller: 720.424.0200, James

Lowry: 720.424.5910, KwC/Erin & Leyla

Manual: 720.423.6300, Nabil

Munroe: 720.424.5230, Meghan

North: 720.423.2700, Joe

Skinner: 720.424.1420, Craig & Rebecca

Southmoor: 303.756.0392, Brian & Patricia

Thomas Jefferson: 720.423.7000, Brian

Traylor : 720.424.3480, Carolyn

Trevista-at-Horace Mann: 720.423.9800, Joe

University Park: 720.424.3410, Todd

Valdez: 720.424.3310, Joe

Vista Academy/STRIVE GVR: 720.423.7650, Gary & Richard C.


Destination Imagination

Challenging problems are presented to teams of students with a timeline for completion. Destination Imagination is a greatly energizing experience for all involved.

When: Team coaches are needed in the spring of each year, along with judges for the competitions.


FIRST Robotics

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) designs accessible, innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering.


Mentoring

Mentors for specific students with similar interests and abilities can propel students and volunteers to new heights of achievement. Tutorial assistance or the offer of friendship can prepare students for success in ongoing and lasting ways.

Classroom Assistants

Individuals are always needed to assist teachers in helping the classroom run smoothly. Volunteers may lead small group activities, assist in coordinating large-group efforts, and help students individually as needed.


Reading Partners

Reading Partners empowers you to make a real difference by tutoring students who are reading 1 month to 2.5 years below grade-level. No prior experience is required. Teach fundamental reading skills using our easy-to-follow curriculum, and inspire a love of reading in a student.

When: Tutoring takes place Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at our 14 school locations in DPS and requires only 1 hour a week.

Contact: Sign up or ask questions by calling 720-409-9909.


Science Fairs

Students are inspired by adult expertise and imagination in the design and completion of science projects for annual school fairs. Problem-solving is always more productive with the help of a friend.

When: Held annually.


Spanish Language

Many classrooms can utilize additional help from volunteers who have Spanish-speaking ability or other language skills. These individuals can assist students with both Spanish and English language learning in the classroom.

When: During the school day.


Spellbinders

The Denver Spellbinders program works to build community through storytelling in the schools. Spellbinders provide 20-30 minute storytelling sessions in the classroom, sharing fairy tales, folk tales, literary tales, legends, personal experiences, and other stories of interest. Participation in monthly Spellbinders meetings helps volunteers to hone their storytelling skills and maintain connections with other group members.

When: During the school day.

Contact: For more information, visit the Spellbinders Resources Center.

Grant Writing

Schools can utilize the skills of good writers to assist in the pursuit of funds for greatly needed programs that enhance education.

Parents on Patrol (POPs)

Parents are needed to keep an eye on activities that occur during school hours in hallways, on playgrounds and in activity areas to assure a smooth and effective day for all.

When: During the school day.


Speakers Bureau

Speakers on various issues are often sought for presentations to students, parents, and staff. Topics include personal interest issues, developmental concerns, career opportunities, motivation, self-esteem, etc.

When: Varies.

Donate to Support our Learners and Educators

New school supplies are always needed for our students and classrooms throughout the year.

School & Classroom Supplies

  • Calculators: Basic and scientific
  • Construction Paper
  • Crayons
  • Dry Erase Markers
  • Graph Paper
  • Highlighters
  • Pencils
  • Pencil Sharpeners
  • Spiral Notebooks
  • Scissors
  • Sticky Notes
  • Furniture: Desks, tables, folding chairs, etc.
  • Tools: Mechanics or “shop” tools.
  • Toys: New
  • Art Supplies
  • Cameras: Digital cameras and digital video cameras
  • Backpacks: New
  • Clothes: New clothing in various sizes
  • Computers: See computer standards
  • Laboratory Supplies: Biology, Chemistry, and robotics
  • Denver Citywide Marching Band is a music program within Denver Public Schools. The DCMB is made up of music students, grades 7th-12th, from 20 different schools across the district.  Needed instruments and equipment can be found on our   Amazon Wish List
  • Musical Instruments: We no longer accept pianos  To donate musical instruments, contact Christa Taylor at 720-423-1828.
  • For all other supplies, contact Enterprise Management at 720-423-5654 for additional information and to arrange delivery.