These posts are the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of A+ Colorado.
Colorado students, teachers and communities are adjusting to this “new normal”. The transition to online learning which is likely to continue for the remainder of the year, has presented unique challenges for rural and urban districts. This week’s Stay Sharp Response Digest includes an interview with a local school leader, an A+ Answer digging into…
All Colorado schools have suspended in-school learning through at least April 30, and while most school districts and families adjust to this new normal, there are still so many hurdles districts are facing to meet the needs of their students and families. Meal distribution continues throughout the state in many areas, with some districts going…
A+ Colorado has shifted our work to focus on responding to the education needs within the state while continuing to provide data-driven information and advocacy to support the community. In the coming weeks, we will be providing weekly news and updates, partner resources, and stories worth spotlighting. News to share Guidance for School Districts Amid…
During these difficult times, as districts are tasked with unprecedented situations and decisions, we wanted to take the time to shine a light on a student population that is often overlooked, those without stable home environments. The state defines students experiencing homelessness as any youth who lacks a “fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.” This…
While COVID-19 has presented complex challenges for individuals and leaders throughout the state, A+ Colorado remains focused on providing data-driven information and advocacy to strengthen the community. Education partners state-wide are in the midst of supporting their families’ basic needs while others have started to develop strategies to respond to this unprecedented crisis. We are…
Are there any interesting stories in the recently released October Count data? A cursory analysis of the recently released October count data has us talking about school choice and the changing demographic landscape in Colorado education. As the overall student population growth has slowed in recent years, the number of students identified as Hispanic has…
Without you, we’d be pointless! With love in the air as we wrap up the best education party of the year, we have plenty of education updates throughout Colorado. This Stay Sharp Newsletter features testimony we’ve provided around teacher education legislation, we welcome a new team member, and a brand new segment of A+ Answers…
In January 2020, the Reimagine SPF Committee in Denver Public Schools decided to recommend that the district use the state school performance framework to set the bar for academic standards for schools. The committee now grapples with what additional indicators the district should measure and communicate to educators, families, and communities. A+ Colorado presents the…
Good afternoon Chairman Foote, Vice Chair Fields, and members of the committee, I’m Katie Martinez, the Director of Communications and Engagement from A+ Colorado, a research organization committed to improving public education for Colorado’s students. I’m here with my colleague Lisa Berdie, Vice President of Policy and Research. Thank you for the opportunity to speak…
“The interim school finance committee discussed shifting our school funding formula, but didn’t propose changes since there isn’t new funding in the system. What do we know about how money might impact student outcomes?” Many conversations about student success often include a discussion of funding and spending. As parents, community members, and taxpayers we often…