As Governor Jared Polis signs the 2024 School Finance Act into law, the state of Colorado is taking a significant step towards fully funding public schools and ensuring that all students have access to a quality education. Sponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Senators Rachel Zenzinger and Janet Buckner, as well as Representatives Shannon Bird and Barbara McLachlan, this legislation raises the base level of per-pupil funding by $780 to $11,450 on average.
With a total increase of over $500 million in funding, the School Finance Act will not only buy down the Budget Stabilization Factor but also reduce class sizes, increase teacher pay, and provide a world-class education for Colorado's children and youth. This historic legislation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all those involved in advocating for increased funding for public schools.
In addition to these key provisions, the School Finance Act also includes measures to support rural school districts, improve ninth-grade success programs, and provide support for students living with disabilities. By eliminating reliance on one-time funding for rural schools, expanding resources for ninth-grade students, and amending the definition of “concurrent enrollment” to include students in special education, this legislation is truly comprehensive in its approach to improving educational outcomes for all students in Colorado.
As Senator Zenzinger, one of the sponsors of the bill, aptly states, “Fully funding our schools is one of the main reasons I ran for the state senate.” With the passage of the 2024 School Finance Act, Colorado is taking a significant step towards achieving that goal and providing a brighter future for generations to come.