Based on the harsh fact of consistently dropping student enrollment, the Denver Public Schools Board of Education has decided to close seven schools and restructure grades at three others, a decision that reflects a larger trend facing metropolitan school systems.
As the unanimous vote was cast, the crowd at Thursday’s board meeting erupted in cries of “Shame on you.” This dissatisfaction echoed the frustration of many, including Elizabeth Burciaga of the community advocacy group Movimiento Poder, who pleaded with the board to delay their decision. The closures save close to $30 million annually, which, when considered against the backdrop of declining attendance figures and an impending deficit, aims to realign the district’s fiscal posture while upsetting the fabric of affected communities, according to CBS News Colorado.
As DPS struggles with a chronic budgetary excess of support of upwards of $15 million to $20 million annually for under-enrolled institutions, as reported by The Denver Post, the closures will result in significant restructuring for schools like Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy, Dora Moore, and DCIS Baker.
According to district leaders quoted by Denver7, DPS officials are still in charge of a $1.4 billion budget, but despite having such substantial resources at their disposal, the district faces a potential $2.6 million deficit for the 2024–2025 school year. This estimate is dependent on enrollment figures that will be finalized after the state’s October count.
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