Colorado Teachers Protest Proposed K-12 Funding Changes at State Capitol

Governor Jared Polis defends eliminating enrollment averaging to address a $1.2 billion budget shortfall, as educators warn of severe impacts on schools and students.

Thousands of teachers rallied at the Colorado State Capitol, demanding the state uphold its commitment to K-12 funding despite a $1.2 billion budget deficit.
Governor Polis's proposal to eliminate four-year enrollment averaging aims to save $147 million but has faced backlash for potentially harming rural and declining-enrollment districts.
Educators argue the proposed changes would exacerbate challenges like large class sizes, staff turnover, and reduced student services.
Key districts, including Jeffco Public Schools, face significant funding losses, with Jeffco anticipating a $21 million reduction if averaging is eliminated.
An alternative plan by Rep. Julie McCluskie seeks to preserve enrollment averaging while scaling back the implementation of a new funding formula.