How we got started
In August of 2017, a group of Park Hill neighbors gathered for a dialogue about diversity, equity and inclusion, particularly as they relate to the four neighborhood elementary schools in Park Hill – Smith, Hallett, Stedman and Park Hill Elementary. That conversation highlighted the need to raise awareness across the community of the inequities among our schools and to work collaboratively to address them. Thus was born Park Hill Neighbors for Equity in Education (PHNEE). Recognizing the deep commitment in Park Hill to diversity, equity, and inclusion dating back decades, and the stark disparities in resources and supports at our schools, PHNEE works to improve education for all of our kids. We focus on raising awareness about our neighborhood’s history in fighting for equity, and of the current barriers to equity for our kids. We are committed to creating a seat at the table in these discussions for voices that are not usually included, and of building trust and community through conversations, learning, and a focus on what unites us all – the children of Park Hill.
Leadership
- PHNEE is led by a steering committee of 12 volunteers.
- Our co-chairs are James Roy and Andrew Lefkowits.
PHNEE In The News
- A Force to Be Reckoned With – GPHN
- Choices Based On A Flawed System – GPHN
- Local Experts Weigh In On the Superintendent Search – The Front Porch
- “Raising White Kids” by Denver Public Schools Grad – The Denver Post
- Being a Thoughtful Consumer of School Choice – The Front Porch
We are grateful to be supported by Denver Metro Community Impact, a backbone, facilitator, and connector for a growing network of partners committed to meeting the needs of families, in order to ensure that every single child in Park Hill is provided the supports needed to thrive academically, socially, emotionally and economically from birth through age 25.
