Thu Nov 07 21:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Denver Public Schools Faces Difficult Decision: Closing Schools Due to Declining Enrollment

Denver Public Schools (DPS) is facing a challenging situation as declining enrollment forces the district to consider closing schools. Superintendent Alex Marrero will present a school closure plan to the board on Thursday, with a vote scheduled for November 21st. The district’s decision is driven by a national trend of declining birth rates and a drop in public school enrollment, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising housing costs.

DPS enrollment peaked in 2019 but has fallen significantly since then, leading to a loss of millions of dollars in per-pupil funding. The district projects a shortfall of $70 million annually by 2028, forcing them to consider drastic measures. While the number of schools to be closed and their locations remain undisclosed, DPS has already closed three schools last year, and this is the second attempt by Marrero to address the issue.

The looming closures are drawing criticism from parents and community members who argue that school closures disproportionately impact low-income families and communities. DPS officials acknowledge the emotional impact of these decisions and have committed to providing support and engaging with the community throughout the process.

The news comes as DPS is also seeking voter approval for a nearly $1 billion bond proposal to address maintenance and capital needs, including building a new school in northeast Denver. This bond measure, however, will not be used to address the district’s general budget shortfalls caused by declining enrollment.

The Denver school board, once hesitant to close schools, now seems resigned to the reality of this difficult decision. While the potential closures are drawing criticism from some, the board emphasizes the importance of fiscal responsibility and prioritizing the needs of all students within the district.

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