Investing in Aurora’s public education system can generate enormous returns, particularly when funds are used strategically on known solutions. This year, APS took the first steps to leverage funding for increased student achievement.
At the August 2 Aurora School Board Meeting, the Board unanimously approved a bond question for the November ballot. Aurora voters will be asked to raise $300 million to fund various improvements to APS technology and buildings as well as a new 6-12 building in North Aurora, a new P-12 building in East Aurora, and a building to replace Mrachek Middle School. These updates and new buildings ensure that Aurora students— many of whom are in overcrowded and out of date classrooms— have safe and comfortable learning spaces.
The district has not elected to run a Mill Levy which pay for “soft” expenditures like operating expenses, personnel (teachers or classroom assistants), reading programs, P.E., music, art or other subject matter specialists; textbooks and software tools.
Superintendent Munn cited austerity as a motivator for asking taxpayers for less money than the district projects it would need to update all buildings. If the bond passes in November, the district’s use of the money will impact future bond and mill elections. It is vital that the district engage the community in conversations about how to use the funds and clearly communicate the impact of the funding on students and staff. Effective engagement and communication about the impact of public funds could help inspire confidence among Aurora voters who have the opportunity to vote on future mill and bond questions.
A+ Colorado released an official report in support of Aurora’s bond measure.
Find the rest of the blogs here:
Strategic Plan
Community Engagement
Family-Friendly Rating System
Exemplar New Schools
Serving High-Need Students
Turnaround Schools
Early Childhood Education