THE ISSUES
Public Education
Investing in public education is not about politics. As Colorado faces the possibility of an economic slowdown in 2026, it is more important than ever that we remain committed to funding our public schools. Though the budget stabilization factor was repealed, it still shorted Academy School District 20 $271.4 million in funding over 15 years. Our schools had to choose between repairing the roof and funding classroom resources for students. We cannot repeat that mistake. Our schools should not be treated as a balancing tool when times get tough.
Education funding is a promise to our children, our families, and our communities. Even in challenging economic moments, we must prioritize stability, protect classroom resources, and give schools the certainty they need to plan and succeed. Strong public education is not a luxury for good times. It is a foundation that helps communities weather difficult ones. Staying committed to school funding is both fiscally responsible and essential to Colorado's long term success.
I also believe public education dollars should remain focused on public education. Every child deserves a quality education, regardless of where they live or their family's income. Public schools welcome every student who walks through their doors and are accountable to taxpayers through elected school boards, public budgets, and state standards. When limited education funding is diverted into voucher programs, it leaves fewer resources for the neighborhood schools that serve the overwhelming majority of Colorado students. Rather than creating parallel systems that compete for the same dollars, we should strengthen the public schools that are the backbone of our communities. By investing in our teachers, modern classrooms, career and technical education, and student support services, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.
