Media Release

Denver - The Department of Climate and Safety (DoCS), a dedicated 24-hour multi-skilled operations team ensuring the security of students and staff in Denver Public Schools (DPS), is thrilled to announce its inaugural participation in the Denver Juneteenth Music Festival.

DoCS will host a booth at the heart of the Juneteenth festivities on Saturday, June 15 and Sunday, June 16 on Welton Street. This marks the team’s first time involvement at the annual street celebration, signifying a significant step in its ongoing commitment to directly engage with Denver's diverse communities.

At the festival, the department’s staff will be available at the booth to provide families with interactive activities and educational resources on preventative and safety measures at DPS schools. This includes information ranging from the procedures involved in school lockdown drills to the Safe2Tell program, the anonymous reporting of safety concerns.

DoCS recognizes the importance of proactively taking part in community events like Denver’s Juneteenth Music Festival. By being available at this iconic annual celebration, the Department aims to foster stronger community connections, promote safety awareness, and engage in meaningful dialogue about any safety-related issues affecting DPS schools. 

"We are thrilled to be at the Denver Juneteenth Music Festival for the first time," said Greg Cazzell, Chief of the Denver Public Schools Department of Climate and Safety. "Being a visible part of Denver’s annual celebration of African American freedom and achievement, which attracts over 70,000 people, provides a remarkable opportunity for us to connect with families in a spirit of approachability and transparency. This event allows us to openly discuss our initiatives aimed at cultivating safe and inclusive learning environments for all DPS students."

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. 

The Denver Public School Department of Climate and Safety invites all festival attendees to stop by their booth, and be part of this momentous occasion celebrating freedom, unity, and community engagement.

-DPS-