Phil Goodstein COURTESY OF TOM TORGOVE

in trying to shape society. ey are constantly in the news. But nobody had done a retrospection on exactly what Denver Public Schools is, its achievements, and why it is always at the center of controversy.

Filling this void is the main objective of “ e History of Denver Public Schools.”

Goading from people who have been active in the schools as board members, concerned parents and volunteers helped push me to write the volumes.

What do you hope people get out of reading any one or all three of “The History of Denver Public Schools” books?

Ideally, by reading the books, people will grasp the obvious: there are no magical education cures. As part of the community, schools re ect the values, the hopes and the limitations of those with power and individuals valiantly trying to survive in a sometimes insane society. By grasping what the schools are and where they have been, people can work to shape them to blossom as places nurturing self-learning, critical thought, and commitment to nourishing people over pro ts and property.

Where to get the book e History of Denver Public Schools trilogy — “Denver School Book,” “ e School Busing Wars” and “Schools for a New Century” — are available at many local bookstores. Among them are Capitol Hill Books, the Broadway Book Mall, West Side books and Tattered Cover. e next book Goodstein is working on will explore cemetery history in the metro area, including the people who lay to rest in them. It is expected to be published in late 2023 or early 2024.

What’s next?