DSST: Elevate Northeast High School

DSST: Elevate Northeast High School is a public charter high school in northeast Denver serving 545 students in grades 9–12 as part of School District No. 1. The school serves a predominantly low-income population, with 76.9% of students eligible for free/reduced lunch, and maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13.8:1. The most notable bright spot is a 93.5% graduation rate — well above the district average of 81.9% and state average of 85.6% — alongside a very low dropout rate of 1.1%. However, the school also reports a 45.2% chronic absenteeism rate, which is far above both district (38.1%) and state (28.4%) averages and has risen from 40.7% the prior year.

Academically, math is a relative strength. SAT Math proficiency (37%) exceeds both district (33%) and state (32%) averages, and PSAT9 math (42%) also outpaces district and state. Reading and writing, however, trail the state at every grade level — for example, SAT Reading/Writing proficiency is 50% versus 60% statewide. English Language Learner students are a standout subgroup, ranking in the 80th percentile statewide (4 stars), and Hispanic, African American, and low-income students each rank in the 61st–66th percentile range. Science is an area of concern, with 11th-grade CMAS proficiency at 16.8%, down from 24.1% two years earlier and now below both district and state averages.

In comparison to nearby options, Elevate clearly outperforms Montbello High School and Northeast Early College on graduation, test scores, and dropout prevention. It trails same-network schools DSST: Montview High School and DSST: Conservatory Green High School, which serve similar demographics but post higher rankings, stronger reading scores, and much lower chronic absenteeism. It significantly lags Northfield High School and Denver School of the Arts, though those schools serve far fewer low-income families. For families considering charter options in northeast Denver, Elevate offers strong graduation outcomes and competitive math instruction, but attendance, literacy, and science are areas worth asking about.