denver public schools asking for bond to pay for facility construction and upgrade projects

In an effort to update and maintain its existing facilities, the Denver Public Schools will present local voters in November with a $795 million bond proposal designed to address those needs.

Members of the Denver Public Schools board have voted unanimously in favor of putting the bond question on the ballot.

The school board vote comes after months of deliberation by a citizens’ committee made up of educators, parents, and students who reviewed the big district’s current facility needs.

Four years ago, Denver voters gave their approval to a $527 million bond designed to both build new school facilities and upgrade existing ones.

Out of the $795 million being asked for approval this time around, $130 million will go for the building of new facilities, as well as the expansion of existing schools across the district.

Exactly $332 million is slated for maintenance projects, including HVAC system upgrades and both electrical and plumbing system improvements.

Up to $65 million will target classroom technology and school security measures.
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The Denver Public Schools system comprises, at 155 square miles, the largest district in Colorado, with just over 160 schools serving around 93,000 students.

By Garry Boulard

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