October 17, 2011
Dear Friend,
Ballots for the November 1, 2011 election hit mailboxes last week. Much is at stake surrounding public education in Denver and Colorado. I want to encourage you to educate yourself on the issues and to return your ballot by November 1.
There are two issues in particular that are critical to public education: the DPS School Board Elections and Proposition 103.
School Board Elections:
Voter turnout for a Board of Education election is typically very low, and yet this is one of the most influential roles an elective body can play in our community. A strong public school system is the foundation of every community, every neighborhood and a critical factor for businesses trying to recruit and retain employees. Each district’s school board plays a vital role in shaping our neighborhood schools. It is extremely important that every community has an active and informed voice in electing its school board members. Read about the priorities of the current seven-member DPS School Board here.
Why your vote November 1 matters:
Do we want more out of Denver Public Schools and faster? Absolutely.
And yet it’s important to highlight the signs of progress in DPS. The ambitious efforts of DPS’ strategic “Denver Plan” are working to affect change and growth in our students and schools:
- DPS graduation rates are on the rise. In 2011, 500 more graduates walked across a DPS commencement stage than in 2009 – prepared to take on college, career and a role as a thriving participant of this community. Additionally, enrollment in Advancement Placement courses and concurrent enrollment in college courses has been steadily growing over the last several years.
- DPS’ aggressive improvement strategies are translating into higher academic growth for individual students. For the third consecutive year, DPS students have posted growth scores at or above the state median in all subjects. DPS is now surpassing all other high-poverty school districts in the state in this measure.
- The nation is taking notice of DPS’ bold efforts and investing in this work. DPS has received competitive federal and private grants totaling more than $100 million in the last three years alone.
- And lastly, for the first time since its introduction in 2008, more than half of DPS schools are meeting or exceeding standards on the “School Performance Framework” (the comprehensive annual school scorecard). In addition, the number of schools receiving the lowest rating fell for the third consecutive year.
Among these signs of progress a clear message has emerged: DPS is on the right track.
Much is still to be done, and we need the community to be involved to ensure continued progress is made. I share this information in the hopes that you take time to evaluate the candidates and educate yourself about their position on key issues and their vision for the future of DPS. Click here to link to a list of candidates, including websites and contact information for each.
YES on Proposition 103
Also on your November 1 ballot you will have the opportunity to vote on Proposition 103.
As you may know, Colorado ranks among the ten lowest-funded states in the nation for public education, and the cuts keep coming. The September 20, 2011 state forecast predicted another revenue shortfall, which could translate into more K-12 funding cuts. If projections hold true, DPS officials are bracing for a $25 million cut for the 2012-13 school year. This is on top of the $75 million in lost revenue to DPS since 2009-10, totaling $100 million in cuts to DPS. Statewide cuts to K-12 have already reached $774 million in the past three years.
Proposition 103 is a simple proposal that offers a five-year “time out” from school cuts via a nominal tax increase designated specifically for public education. Under Prop 103 tax rates will convert to what Colorado had in 1999. After five years, the rates will return to current levels.
While this won’t restore public education funding to previous levels, it will prevent the continued anticipated cuts; cuts that Colorado’s students, our schools and our community just can’t continue to endure.
With your help, we can make sure Colorado’s public school system is the backbone of a strong economy and the cornerstone of a thriving community. Now, more than ever, it’s time to re-invest in our kids and our future.
The Denver Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors joins the DPS Board of Education (on a 7-0 vote) and countless other school boards and community entities urging you to VOTE YES on 103. View a list of others joining the YES on 103 effort here.
Please return your ballot before November 1, with a YES on 103, and help us advocate for the measure by sharing your support with the entire community. Link to a toolkit of materials to help you accomplish this here. Colorado’s kids can’t wait.
Vote by November 1
As you can see, the November 1 election will have a profound impact on public education in our community and our state. I implore you to do your research and cast your ballot by November 1.
Sincerely,
The Denver Public Schools Foundation Board of Directors