Denver School Board Revises Closure Policy Amid Declining Enrollment

New proposals aim to balance financial viability with community impact and equity concerns.

Denver Public Schools projects an 8% drop in enrollment by 2028, continuing a decline since 2019.
Board members suggest revisions to ensure closures don't disproportionately affect communities of color.
The policy excludes enrollment minimums and standardized test scores as criteria for closures.
Community engagement practices have been criticized for insufficient outreach and timing.
Hispanic and low-income students are most likely to be affected by school closures.