School Views: Funding our future
Every year we hear stories about federal and state budgets and what that means for our educational system. By law, Gov. Jared Polis is required to present a balanced budget that passes through the state legislature, and for many years, our state has balanced the budget by taking funds from the education sector.
Facing a $1.2 billion deficit, we were extremely concerned that we would see a similar situation play out this year.
I’m happy to report that things didn’t turn out as dire as they could have. Strong advocacy from professional organizations like the Colorado Association of School Executives, Colorado Education Association and Colorado Association of School Boards lobbied hard during the legislative session to prevent cuts to K-12. As a result, state lawmakers passed a budget that actually increased funding to schools for next year, but not in the amount outlined in the new School Finance Formula.
The state average will increase to $11,440 per student, which will mean a slight increase for Eagle County School District from our previous year as well. The state budget also included a provision to keep the Healthy School Meals for All program, but it will require support from voters on the November ballot to fully fund the breakfast and lunch program for all Colorado students.
Locally, we did not have any school district-related ballot initiatives in 2024. Through your support in 2023, we passed a bond issue. Those funds are eligible to go towards capital projects, such as the Gypsum Early Learning Center, an affordable housing complex in Gypsum, and a new technology and nutrition building. Construction projects also include increased capacity at Edwards Early Learning Center and new athletic fields at Battle Mountain and Eagle Valley high schools. Thank you for supporting these projects.
Support Local Journalism
Looking at the 2025-26 school year, we are still finalizing the negotiations process with the teachers’ association. The school board intends to provide raises for all staff for the school year 2025-2026. That is possible because the district cut operational and administrative budgets, as well as reduced staffing ratios. Those were difficult decisions, but necessary to adjust compensation and help the district recruit and retain quality staff. In that process, the school board is mindful of maintaining a balanced budget and healthy reserve balance, while still providing raises for all staff.
Eagle County School District will continue to provide a quality education for the youth of our valley while also supporting our staff members. As we wrap up another school year, I want to express our sincere appreciation for the support our community has given us in reaching these goals. While the state funding model continues to be a work in progress, we still think that Eagle County School District is an amazing place to grow, learn, and work, and we’re excited for what’s to come.
Philip Qualman is the superintendent of Eagle County School District. Email him at philip.qualman@eagleschools.net.
