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DENVER, CO – Colorado students are set to benefit from a significant investment in their education as Governor Jared Polis recently signed the historic 2025 School Finance Act into law. This landmark legislation will inject an additional $256 million into the state’s K-12 education system, marking a substantial increase in funding and a commitment to improving educational outcomes for all Colorado children.

The Act represents a collaborative effort between the Governor's office, the Colorado legislature, and education stakeholders. It addresses critical needs within the education system, focusing on areas such as teacher salaries, classroom resources, and student support services. The increased funding aims to alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by school districts across the state, allowing them to better serve their students.

“Investing in our schools and our students is an investment in the future of Colorado,” said Governor Polis during the signing ceremony. “This Act demonstrates our unwavering commitment to providing every child with the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their zip code.”

Key Provisions of the 2025 School Finance Act:

• Increased Per-Pupil Funding: The Act provides a significant increase in per-pupil funding, ensuring that schools have the resources necessary to support individual student needs.
• Teacher Recruitment and Retention: A portion of the funding is earmarked for initiatives designed to attract and retain high-quality teachers, addressing a persistent challenge in many Colorado school districts. This includes potential salary increases and professional development opportunities.
• Expanded Access to Early Childhood Education: The Act recognizes the importance of early childhood education and allocates funds to expand access to quality preschool programs for Colorado’s youngest learners.
• Support for Students with Special Needs: Increased funding will be directed toward supporting students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the individualized attention and resources they require to thrive.
• Modernization of School Facilities: A portion of the funding will be used to address deferred maintenance and modernization needs in school buildings across the state, creating safer and more conducive learning environments.

The $256 million increase represents a notable shift in the state’s approach to education funding. Education advocates have long called for increased investment in public schools, citing concerns about overcrowded classrooms, outdated resources, and inadequate teacher compensation. This Act is seen as a crucial step towards addressing these challenges and ensuring that Colorado students have the tools they need to succeed in the 21st century.

While the Act has been widely praised, some stakeholders have noted that further investment may be needed to fully address the long-term needs of the education system. However, the 2025 School Finance Act provides a solid foundation for future progress and demonstrates a strong commitment to the future of Colorado’s children. School districts are expected to begin implementing the changes outlined in the Act in the coming months, and the impact on student outcomes will be closely monitored.

The signing of the 2025 School Finance Act underscores Colorado's dedication to creating a world-class education system that prepares students for success in college, careers, and life.