Adams 12 School District reveals $27M budget cuts amid declining enrollment

In a recent City Council Study Session held on June 2, 2025, the Northglenn community faced pressing discussions regarding the significant budget challenges impacting local schools. The meeting highlighted a projected budget reduction of $27 million for the upcoming year, stemming from a general fund budget of approximately $400 million. This reduction translates to over 150 positions being cut from the school system, primarily due to declining student enrollment.

The discussion revealed that the anticipated growth in student numbers has not materialized as expected. Factors contributing to this decline include demographic shifts, with families having fewer children compared to previous generations. The speaker noted that many neighborhoods are experiencing an aging population, where long-term residents are not moving out, and new residents are often childless or have fewer children. This demographic trend has placed additional strain on the district's financial resources.

The meeting also addressed the broader implications of state funding changes for declining enrollment districts. The district has seen a $10 million reduction in funding due to these changes, which have compounded the financial difficulties already faced. Additionally, rising costs in utilities, health insurance, and technology have outpaced the modest 2.3% inflationary increase in state funding, further complicating budget planning.

A critical point raised during the session was the district's position as one of the lowest funded in the metro area. With supplemental revenue significantly lagging behind neighboring districts, the speaker emphasized the disparity in funding, which affects teacher salaries and the ability to attract and retain qualified staff. The district's average teacher salary is notably lower than that of nearby districts, creating challenges in maintaining competitive compensation.

The council also discussed the recent failure of a supplemental revenue measure aimed at generating $34 million annually. Voter sentiment indicated a reluctance to increase property taxes, despite the district's financial needs. The council acknowledged the importance of communicating the district's funding challenges to the community, particularly to those without children in the schools, to foster understanding and support for future funding initiatives.

Looking ahead, the district aims to prioritize teacher compensation and maintain class sizes while navigating these financial hurdles. The council expressed hope for future legislative changes that could address the systemic issues in school funding, which have left many districts, including Northglenn, struggling to meet educational needs.

In conclusion, the discussions during the City Council Study Session underscored the urgent need for a reevaluation of school funding mechanisms in Colorado. As the district prepares for another challenging budget year, the focus remains on advocating for adequate resources to ensure quality education for all students.