Southeastern Denver

We have belonged to Holly Hills/Ridge for 2 years now. The two building set-up has been difficult on the staff and community, but that is soon changing with a new building be built. The principal has a great balance of listening to students and parents, while still holding them accountable. The assistant principal has taken great steps to improve attendance and both work well to support the community, students, and staff through communication and initiatives. Teachers work extremely hard, communicate regularly, and hold a high regard for learning. The diversity of this school, while still being in Cherry Creek, is something that we looked for, and are proud to be part of this community.

I went to this school from 1st to 4th grade, and I can confidently say that out of the many schools I have gone to throughout my entire life, this has been the best one. The attention that students receive from teachers is excellent, they dedicate time and effort into the activities they assign, and work adequately with each student according to their needs. They are also emotionally involved, being concerned about how the students feel about their school, friends, etc. The environment is safe, classrooms are clean, with many outdoor spaces to play. Bullying is also taken very seriously. In my own personal experience, I believe that this school played an important role in what values I consider important today. Teachers are helpful and attentive and ensure that parents know what their children were learning. I look back at my time in this school fondly. I would 100% recommend this school to anyone.

As the principal of Holm Elementary, I am proud to say that we are a school that welcomes every child exactly where they are and helps them to grow to their fullest potential. Our focus is not simply on where students begin their educational journey, but on the academic, social and emotional growth they make while they are with us. At Holm, we believe every student deserves the support and opportunities they need to succeed. For students identified as Gifted and Talented, we offer services through our GT program as well as advanced math opportunities. For students who require additional support, we provide targeted interventions, special education services, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech-language services, and dedicated adult support when identified through an IEP. Our commitment to the whole child continues to grow. Last year, we added a Restorative Practice Coordinator and a Liaison of Student Support to strengthen our Whole Child Model. This year, we are excited to add a second school psychologist to further support students and families. we believe social-emotional learning is woven throughout the school day and embedded in every interaction, not confined to a single scheduled lesson. Holm has consistently been recognized as an Effective School throughout Denver Public School's School Performance Framework and previously earned the Distinguished rating. In 2023, Holm was honored as a Center of Excellence by the Colorado Department of Education. While our achievement scores may not always be the highest in the state, our growth data consistently demonstrates that students make significant academic progress, often achieving more than a year's worth of growth in a single year. Family partnerships are an essential part of our success. We encourage families to advocate for their children, engage with teachers, participate in our Holm Helpers parent group, and attend the many family engagement opportunities offered throughout the year. We communicate regularly through Friday Folders, ClassDojo, social media and school-wide updates to keep families informed and connected. Holm may not always be the highest-performing school by every measure, but we are a school that believes deeply in the potential of every child. We celebrate growth, foster meaningful relationships, and work every day to ensure students feel supported, challenged and valued. Simply put, there is no place like Holm.

I would not enroll my student at this school. I have seen 5th graders literally beating other 5th graders while the staff does nothing. Parents are always getting in to fist fights with staff and other parents. This is not a safe school for you or your child.