Bond and Mill Levy Quick Facts

Quick Facts: 2012 Bond Support for Our Schools

In 2012, Denver voters and Denver Public Schools pledged to build great schools in every neighborhood. Together, we’ve kept our promise to build, expand and sustain schools in every corner of the city.

What’s a bond? Check out School Funding 101 for a crash course in Colorado education funding.

Repairing and maintaining older schools. With the average age of Denver schools at 43 years — and 85 buildings that are 65 years old or older — more than $230 million helped restore older school buildings in every region.

New classrooms and schools. As Denver’s population continues to grow, more than $200 million in new and expanded schools have helped ensure all students have the opportunity to enroll in a great school close to home.

Classroom technology and resources. More than $21 million in classroom technology and curriculum investments brought some 20,000 new laptops, Chromebooks, tablets and other devices and related support directly to schools. This was supported by bond AND mill levy funding!

On-time and on-budget. All of the projects included in the bond request were completed ahead of the 2016 deadline and at projected costs, even though construction costs increased dramatically during this time.

More money for more improvements. Through this careful management of these investments, an extra $35.7 million in improvements to schools were completed at no added cost to taxpayers.

Quick Facts: 2012 Mill Levy Support for Our Schools

There’s much more work to do to ensure that all of our kids graduate, and are prepared for college and careers in the 21st century. By revitalizing schools and strengthening supports, we’re helping ensure Denver kids are learning and growing at a faster pace through better academics and expanded enrichment.

What’s a mill levy? Check out School Funding 101 for a crash course in Colorado education funding.

More growth in math. A $17 million investment in more small-group math tutoring opportunities resulted in above-average growth in math for all participating grade levels. This growth in math helps to build a strong foundation for the many STEM careers available to our graduates.

Expanded early learning. A $13 million investment in early childhood education means that Denver’s youngest learners have expanded opportunities throughout the city, with hundreds of scholarships for preschool and full-day kindergarten and more than 1,300 additional preschool enrollment opportunities.

Enhanced arts and PE. Alongside stronger academics, all Denver schools received a share of more than $11 million to restore and enhance arts, music and physical education programs.

Classroom technology and resources. More than $21 million in classroom technology and curriculum investments brought some 20,000 new laptops, Chromebooks, tablets and other devices and related support directly to schools. This was supported by bond AND mill levy funding!

High-quality curriculum. $4 million supported investments in high-quality curriculum and training. Schools have the flexibility to select district-recommended curriculum and training resources, or to purchase resources that best meet unique student and staff needs.

Support for students and families. $1 million provided additional school counselors and engagement specialists in schools with the greatest need. Caring, supportive staff focus on improving attendance, behavior and literacy. Schools provided matching funds to create these positions!

College and career experiences. $500,000 increased the number of students who gain exposure to college courses and career experiences while still in high school.