As the Coronavirus has continued to present unprecedented challenges for students, families, and district leaders; our Colorado teachers have responded with their familiar creativity, patience, and resilience. We’re grateful for our teachers; especially heading into Teacher Appreciation Week. Follow our social media channels next week to share gratitude for your favorite teachers.
This week’s Stay Sharp Response Digest includes an opportunity to join the A+ Colorado team, a spotlight on transformational educational leadership, and the economic realities of projected budget shortfalls. Onward to #EdColo news and updates!
A+ Updates
A+ is Hiring!
A+ Colorado is looking for an innovative communications professional to join our staff. This team member will lead the communications team while overseeing A+ communications strategy including digital, print, and events. Read more about the position and how to apply.
Spotlight: Transform Education Now
A+ Colorado and DFER have partnered to highlight community organizations and community members’ incredible work during COVID-19. Check out our interview with Nicholas Martinez and Ariel Smith from Transform Education Now (TEN.) Nicholas and Ariel speak about how TEN’s work has shifted to virtually support the families they serve. We appreciate them for their time and leadership.
Dire Education Finance Decisions coming in May and June
As unemployment numbers grow in Colorado and across the nation, the forecasts for state and local tax revenue become increasingly dire. Current projected shortfalls are looking to be north of $3 billion (the state budget had been projected at about $13.4 billion with K-12 making up about $4.5 billion of that proposed spending). This despite the fact the state began FY 19-20 with a very significant 11% General Fund reserve. And while the state is set to receive over $2 billion in CARES dollars, at this point these dollars must be used solely for new COVID-related expenses, and, frustratingly, cannot be used to shore up state or local governments. This has big implications for the services governments will be able to provide in the midst of this economic and health crisis, and states are asking for federal support.
#SendTeachersLove
The COVID-19 pandemic has been the single largest disruption to education in generations. Yet, educators across our country are rising to meet these challenges, navigating unexpected obstacles, and persisting to reach and connect with their students.
Each year, Educators for Excellence celebrates May as Teacher Appreciation Month — an opportunity to recognize excellent educators and the amazing work they do on behalf of their students. This year, honoring teachers is more important than ever. Share pictures with your favorite teachers on social media May 1st-6th with the #SendTeachersLove to show your support for Teachers.
What we’re reading, watching, and listening to…
Valeria Contreras, Advocacy Director
Reading: Caramelo – Sandra Cisneros
Watching: Gentefied, Superstore, and This Is Us 😢
Listening to: Bad Bunny, Residente, Michael Kiwanuka, and Carla Morrison
Cooking: Tacos and fajitas
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