Denver Public Schools has been making significant decisions regarding school closures and bond spending. In an open records request, Chalkbeat obtained information showing that over the past four years, $22.6 million of voter-approved bond dollars has been spent on schools now under consideration for closing or downsizing. This amount only includes construction projects for the 10 specific school buildings. Of these, five are standalone buildings that would become vacant, with about $4.6 million spent at those. The rest was on shared buildings still serving students, but it's unclear how much was spent in the occupied parts of potential closing schools. Unraveling Denver School's Bond-Funded Decisions
Overview of Bond Spending
Bonds are like loans taken out by school districts to fund one-time construction projects, funded by local property taxes and requiring voter approval. The $795 million bond measure approved by Denver voters in 2020 is the source of this funding. Many of the renovations were to upgrade mechanical systems and make buildings accessible for future reuse. 1: The significance of these bond-funded renovations cannot be overstated. Upgrading mechanical systems ensures the smooth operation of the buildings, providing a comfortable learning environment. Making them accessible to people with disabilities is a crucial step towards inclusivity, opening up opportunities for all students. 2: This investment in infrastructure is a long-term commitment by the district. It shows their dedication to providing quality facilities for students and preparing them for the future. These renovations not only enhance the physical aspects of the schools but also have a positive impact on the educational experience.
Proposed School Closures
Superintendent Alex Marrero's recommendation calls for closing several schools due to declining enrollment. Castro Elementary, Columbian Elementary, Denver School of Innovation and Sustainable Design, International Academy of Denver at Harrington, Palmer Elementary, Schmitt Elementary, and West Middle School are among those proposed to close. DSISD and West Middle School currently share buildings with others. Marrero also proposed removing some grades from other schools while keeping them open but with fewer students. 1: The declining enrollment is a major factor driving these closures. Schools like Castro Elementary have seen a significant drop in student numbers, from 357 in 2019-20 to 237 this school year, leaving the buildings underutilized. This poses a challenge for the district in terms of resource allocation and maintaining efficient operations. 2: However, the decision to close schools is not taken lightly. It involves careful consideration of various factors such as the future of the buildings, the educational needs of students, and the community's input. The district is working to find the best solutions to address these challenges.
Community Response and Concerns
Since the proposal was announced, students, parents, and teachers have pushed back. At public meetings, they questioned why the district would spend taxpayer-approved money to renovate schools only to close them. For example, Palmer fifth grade teacher Alice Martin pointed out the newly built playground and carpet in the building that is about to close. At West Middle School, students spoke about the new soccer field, and at Schmitt Elementary, a parent asked about the recently installed elevator. Teachers at several schools noted the lack of air conditioning in some other Denver schools. 1: The community's concerns are valid. They have invested their trust in the district and expect their tax dollars to be used effectively. The sudden closure of schools after renovation raises questions about the district's planning and decision-making processes. 2: The district needs to engage in open dialogue with the community to address these concerns. Listening to the voices of students, parents, and teachers is crucial in finding solutions that balance the need for efficient operations with the educational well-being of the community.
Future Plans and Budgets
The district has budgeted another $5.3 million in 2020 bond money for the 10 school buildings. If the school board votes to close or partially close the schools, critical maintenance projects will be completed, but other projects may not. District officials have stated that they need to close schools due to lack of funds for robust programming at low-enrollment schools. Denver funds schools per student, so fewer students mean less funding. 1: The budgetary constraints pose a significant challenge for the district. They need to make difficult decisions to ensure the sustainability of the school system. Using bond money for critical maintenance is essential to maintain the existing infrastructure. 2: At the same time, there is also the need to explore creative solutions to keep small schools open. The 2024 bond measure provides an opportunity to invest in new projects and improve the overall educational environment.
2024 Bond and Its Impact
The 2024 bond measure, at $975 million, is larger than the 2020 bond and will be used for various purposes such as installing air conditioning in schools without it, upgrading safety systems, and building career and technical education classrooms. It will also be used to build a new elementary school in far northeast Denver, where student population is increasing. 1: This additional bond funding presents an opportunity for the district to address some of the existing issues and improve the educational facilities. Installing air conditioning in schools is a crucial step in providing a comfortable learning environment, especially in a city like Denver where summers can be hot. 2: The construction of a new elementary school in a growing area is a positive development. It will meet the increasing demand for education and provide more opportunities for students in that community.Melanie Asmar is the bureau chief for Chalkbeat Colorado. Contact Melanie at
[email protected].
