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Cherry Creek board, superintendent warn proposed state cuts could cost millions and staff
Summary
Board members and Superintendent Smith said proposals at the state level to change school funding rules and cut education dollars could reduce district revenue by about $17 million and would affect staff and services; public commenters urged continued district support for vulnerable students.
Cherry Creek School District leaders on Feb. 10 told the board and audience that proposed changes at the state and federal level could materially reduce the district's funding and affect staffing and services.
Director Allen told the board the "proposed elimination of declining enrollment averaging threatens to cut $17,000,000 from our district, roughly 170 teachers." Superintendent Smith and several board members said they are actively communicating with state lawmakers and preparing to advocate for the district.
The warnings came during regular board reports and public comment at the board's meeting at Fox Ridge Middle School. The item mattered to the board because Cherry Creek is one of the state's largest districts by enrollment and relies on state and federal reimbursements to fund services such as special education, nutrition and transportation.
Superintendent Smith said the district will remain engaged at the Capitol. "We have testified against the proposal and I encourage parents to contact lawmakers and voice their concerns," he said. He added he will continue weekly communications to staff and families and described the district's responsibility to ensure students "get the care that they deserve." Director Allen told the board the district has testified and urged parents to advocate with state legislators and the governor.
Board members and the superintendent stressed the potential knock-on effects of funding reductions. Scott Smith, the district's chief financial and operating officer, told the board that cuts to federal reimbursements or state at-risk funding would materially affect operations: the district receives about $50 million a year in federal funds across USDA, Medicaid, Title I and IDEA that support meals, special education and other programs.
Public commenters echoed staff concerns. Erin Locklore, a speaker who identified herself as a teacher, told the board students and families are frightened by potential cuts and called on the district to "continue to stand firmly with us," urging clear, timely communication and protections for vulnerable students.
Board members also framed the debate around equity. Superintendent Smith said, "Equity is not a dirty word. Equity is about the lived experiences of those that we serve," and listed basic services the district provides to meet student needs, including meals, transportation and special supports.
The board did not take formal action on state proposals at the meeting; members said they will continue monitoring legislation and brief the community as developments occur.
