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GreatSchools Rating

University Park Elementary School

Public | PK-5 | 502 students

Last modified
Community Rating

4 stars

Community Rating by Year
2013:
Based on 1 rating
2012:
Based on 2 ratings
2011:
Based on 2 ratings
2010:
Based on 9 ratings

Teacher quality

Principal leadership

Parent involvement

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62 reviews of this school


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Posted January 10, 2013

I couldn't be prouder to be a part of the University Park community and staff. Dana Williams is an amazing, caring, knowledgeable leader and it radiates throughout the building.
—Submitted by a teacher


Posted September 17, 2012

I love this school. I learn so much in every subject. Each teacher teaches me so much every day. I love to write and every year I have been here I have learned something spectacular. Each teacher is so marvelous. They teach every subject with passion. Every staff member and teacher have made me fill with glee. The school is so friendly. I moved to this school from a private school with my twin brother. He LOVES gym. I do to. My favorite subject is well every single one!!! The teachers make boring subjects into something great. On my very first day of Upark I made several new friends so did my brother. The principal is SO nice!!!!!! She takes every idea into her heart. If you are thinking about going to this school GO!!! There is a very challenging challenge program and several after school activities. I am in fifth grade and am extremely gloomy that I will be leaving Upark. Yet I hope the other kids will be moving up into the next fabulous years. Upark makes very kid feel special.cthis school is extremely unique, I LOVE IT!!!!


Posted September 5, 2012

Our family loves the Wellness Program at UPark, We weren't there when it was started, but it is really nice to come to a school where healthy food and exercise is the focus. They have fresh fruits and vegetables for snacks, healthy food at celebrations, teachers don't use candy to reward kids, and birthdays are non-food celebrations. The run program before school in the morning is cool and my kids love it. I think it is once or twice a year for many weeks and the kids can earn tokens that they love. This school is definitely different from other schools and really a special place.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 19, 2011

We moved to the U Park neighborhood 2 years ago and we are so happy with the community and the school. We have had excellent teachers and we have met wonderful families. Parent involvement is widespread and heartfelt.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted February 14, 2011

my family and i are looking to relocate back to denver in the next year. we have a 10 year old and a 7 year old so we are looking for an excellant elementary and middle school. thank you
—Submitted by a parent


Posted October 19, 2010

The teachers are committed to the learning of their students.


Posted October 13, 2010

My daughter has moved on to middle school now, an UPark gave her a great foundation.
—Submitted by Jon Pinnow, a parent


Posted May 7, 2010

As a family who choiced in to UPark 4 years ago, our decision is consistently reinforced and confirmed by our son's success as a student, and the wonderful community at this school.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 30, 2010

UPark is unique in that it serves to educate for the health of the whole child. It advocates character formation, healthy choices, civility, connection to community, in addition to cultivating academic skills.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 29, 2010

I love the community feeling with so many wonderful kids, staff, and parents.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 23, 2010

We love Upark - what an amazing community of educators, administrators and families. Not only has my son received a great education, he's loved every minute of it.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 23, 2010

My kids love the teachers and the families that are part of University Park. It is a diverse community of people who are committed to providing the best for our kids. The high level of parent involvement makes a huge difference and has enabled us to provide on-going 'extras' like full time gym, music and art. We also have an excellent band program and programs for kids with special needs.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 23, 2010

My grandchildren attend University Park and both they and their parents have found a caring, supportive atmosphere. One of the grandchildren has a disability, and because of the climate of acceptance and understanding, she has never had a bullying or harrassment incident. High praise in this day and age!


Posted April 23, 2010

Great academics with real-world diversity. Teachers, staff, students, parents are dedicated to academic learning in a caring environment. As a result, my two sons are better citizens and leaders, skilled in taking on challenges in their schools and on their sports teams.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 23, 2010

It provides a truly well-rounded curriculum for the appropriate age level of its students.


Posted April 23, 2010

Outstanding faculty, parent support, special programs. It has been an enjoyable and positive experience for my two grandchildren!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 22, 2010

Amazing, committed teachers, wonderful parent and community support. Kids love going to school there.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 22, 2010

U Park is a terrific community of teachers and parents. I love the diversity and the staff's committment to our students!
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 17, 2010

I love UPark because my children love going to school there. The teachers and staff are loving and caring. The parents get involved. I feel so lucky to have a place like this right in my own neighborhood. UPark gives me hope for my children's future. I feel as if I'm doing right by them, and that makes me feel secure as a parent.
—Submitted by a parent


Posted April 17, 2010

I went to school there, as did all my siblings and many nieces and nephews. Now I'm sending my kids there, so that should be a pretty powerful indication of what I think of the school. It has great parent involvement, which is also a great sign of a great school.
—Submitted by a parent


Community ratings and reviews do not represent the views of GreatSchools nor does GreatSchools check their accuracy or verify the reviewers' identities. Use your discretion when evaluating these reviews.

About these ratings

The Community Rating is the school’s average rating from its community members (e.g., parents, students, and school staff). The highest possible rating is five stars; the lowest is one star.

The test results by subgroup show how the designated group of students is performing in comparison to the general population.
Math

The state average for Math was 71% in 2012.

65 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
85%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 74% in 2012.

67 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
82%
Writing

The state average for Writing was 52% in 2012.

65 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
63%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Colorado used the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) to test students' skills in reading, writing and mathematics in grades 3 through 10, and in science in grades 5, 8 and 10. The TSAP is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Colorado. The goal is for all students to score at or above proficient on the test. The TCAP replaced the CSAP as Colorado's state assessment program effective for the 2011-2012 school year.

See Colorado's state standards

Source: Colorado Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 71% in 2012.

58 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
90%
Reading

58 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
76%
Writing

The state average for Writing was 49% in 2012.

58 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
67%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Colorado used the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) to test students' skills in reading, writing and mathematics in grades 3 through 10, and in science in grades 5, 8 and 10. The TSAP is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Colorado. The goal is for all students to score at or above proficient on the test. The TCAP replaced the CSAP as Colorado's state assessment program effective for the 2011-2012 school year.

See Colorado's state standards

Source: Colorado Department of Education

Math

The state average for Math was 64% in 2012.

66 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
76%
Reading

The state average for Reading was 69% in 2012.

66 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
80%
Science

The state average for Science was 49% in 2012.

66 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
70%
Writing

The state average for Writing was 58% in 2012.

66 students were tested at this school in 2012.

2012

 
 
71%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Colorado used the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) to test students' skills in reading, writing and mathematics in grades 3 through 10, and in science in grades 5, 8 and 10. The TSAP is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Colorado. The goal is for all students to score at or above proficient on the test. The TCAP replaced the CSAP as Colorado's state assessment program effective for the 2011-2012 school year.

See Colorado's state standards

Source: Colorado Department of Education

Math

All Students85%
Female80%
Male89%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)92%
Free lunch eligible65%
Reduced lunch eligiblen/a
Not eligible for free/reduced price lunch94%
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities89%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable88%

Reading

All Students82%
Female81%
Male83%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanic56%
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)88%
Free lunch eligible59%
Reduced lunch eligible100%
Not eligible for free/reduced price lunch92%
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities91%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable88%

Writing

All Students63%
Female60%
Male66%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)72%
Free lunch eligible41%
Reduced lunch eligiblen/a
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities70%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable65%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Colorado used the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) to test students' skills in reading, writing and mathematics in grades 3 through 10, and in science in grades 5, 8 and 10. The TSAP is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Colorado. The goal is for all students to score at or above proficient on the test. The TCAP replaced the CSAP as Colorado's state assessment program effective for the 2011-2012 school year.

The different student groups are identified by the Colorado Department of Education. If there are fewer than 16 students in a particular group, the state doesn't report data for that group.

See Colorado's state standards

Source: Colorado Department of Education

Math

All Students90%
Female89%
Male90%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)100%
Free lunch eligible88%
Reduced lunch eligiblen/a
Not eligible for free/reduced price lunch92%
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities94%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable90%

Reading

All Students76%
Female82%
Male70%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)87%
Free lunch eligible69%
Reduced lunch eligible100%
Not eligible for free/reduced price lunch80%
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities80%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable77%

Writing

All Students67%
Female79%
Male57%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)81%
Free lunch eligible63%
Reduced lunch eligiblen/a
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities72%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable69%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Colorado used the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) to test students' skills in reading, writing and mathematics in grades 3 through 10, and in science in grades 5, 8 and 10. The TSAP is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Colorado. The goal is for all students to score at or above proficient on the test. The TCAP replaced the CSAP as Colorado's state assessment program effective for the 2011-2012 school year.

The different student groups are identified by the Colorado Department of Education. If there are fewer than 16 students in a particular group, the state doesn't report data for that group.

See Colorado's state standards

Source: Colorado Department of Education

Math

All Students76%
Female78%
Male73%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
Multiracialn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)87%
Free lunch eligiblen/a
Reduced lunch eligiblen/a
Not eligible for free/reduced price lunch84%
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities80%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable77%

Reading

All Students80%
Female78%
Male85%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
Multiracialn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)90%
Free lunch eligible100%
Reduced lunch eligible100%
Not eligible for free/reduced price lunch88%
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities85%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable84%

Science

All Students70%
Female68%
Male73%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
Multiracialn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)80%
Free lunch eligiblen/a
Reduced lunch eligiblen/a
Not eligible for free/reduced price lunch80%
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities72%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable70%

Writing

All Students71%
Female75%
Male65%
Black (not Hispanic)n/a
Asiann/a
Hispanicn/a
Multiracialn/a
American Indian or Alaskan Nativen/a
White (not Hispanic)85%
Free lunch eligiblen/a
Reduced lunch eligiblen/a
Students with disabilities (IEP)n/a
Students without disabilities75%
Limited English proficiency (LEP)n/a
Language proficiency status - not applicable73%
Scale: % proficient or advanced

About the tests


In 2011-2012 Colorado used the Transitional Colorado Assessment Program (TCAP) to test students' skills in reading, writing and mathematics in grades 3 through 10, and in science in grades 5, 8 and 10. The TSAP is a standards-based test, which means it measures how well students are mastering specific skills defined for each grade by the state of Colorado. The goal is for all students to score at or above proficient on the test. The TCAP replaced the CSAP as Colorado's state assessment program effective for the 2011-2012 school year.

The different student groups are identified by the Colorado Department of Education. If there are fewer than 16 students in a particular group, the state doesn't report data for that group.

See Colorado's state standards

Source: Colorado Department of Education

Breaking down the GreatSchools Rating

GreatSchools Ratings are based on the most recent standardized test results for schools. Use the breakdown ratings below to compare types of students at this school. Learn more »


Student ethnicity

Ethnicity This school State average
White 71% 61%
Hispanic 14% 28%
Asian/Pacific Islander 7% 4%
Black 7% 6%
American Indian/Alaska Native 1% 1%
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

Student subgroups

  This school District averageState average
Students eligible for free or reduced-price lunch program 19%N/A35%
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

Student-teacher ratio

  This school District averageState average
Students per FTE teacher 19N/A17
Source: NCES, 2008-2009

Special education / special needs

Specific academic themes or areas of focus
  • Special education

Arts & music

Visual arts
  • Ceramics
  • Painting
Music
  • Band
  • Choir / Chorus
Performing and written arts
  • Dance
  • Drama

Language learning

Foreign languages taught
  • Spanish

Gifted & talented

Instructional and/or curriculum models used
  • Gifted / high performing
School leaders can update this information here.

School basics

School start time
  • 8:55 am
School end time
  • 3:45 pm
Before school or after school care / program onsite
  • After school
  • Before school
School Leader's name
  • Dennis Thompson
Fax number
  • (720) 424-3435

Programs

Instructional and/or curriculum models used

Don't understand these terms?
  • Gifted / high performing
Specific academic themes or areas of focus

Don't understand these terms?
  • Special education
Foreign languages taught
  • Spanish
School leaders can update this information here.

Arts & music

Visual arts
  • Ceramics
  • Painting
Music
  • Band
  • Choir / Chorus
Performing arts
  • Dance
  • Drama
School leaders can update this information here.

Apply

 

TIP: Don't forget to ask about documents required for enrollment, such as your child's birth certificate, proof of address, or a record of immunizations.

 
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Notice an inaccuracy? Let us know!

2300 South St Paul St
Denver, CO 80210
Website: Click here
Phone: (720) 424-3410

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