Adams 12 Celebrates $39M Mill Levy Override for Schools

UPDATE: Adams 12 school district leaders are rejoicing following the passage of a crucial $39 million mill levy override, which was confirmed with 53% of voters in favor. This decisive outcome, officially recorded in Adams and Broomfield counties, will enable the district to enhance teacher salaries, expand career and technical education, and improve safety measures without resorting to cuts for a second consecutive year.

The Ballot Issue 5B stands in stark contrast to the previous year, where a similar measure faced defeat with 57% voting “no”. The latest results underscore a significant turnaround in community support. The district previously faced a daunting $27.5 million shortfall, resulting in the elimination of 150 jobs this academic year.

The newly approved measure allows Adams 12 to increase property taxes by up to 8.795 mills, costing homeowners approximately $5 per month per $100,000 of home value. This funding will help bridge the gap between Adams 12 and neighboring districts, where teacher salaries are more competitive.

Of the total $39 million, $25.2 million is designated for salary increases for educators and staff, while $9.2 million will fund program enhancements, including the expansion of Career and Technical Education and the addition of elementary STEM-focused teachers. Furthermore, $1.4 million will be allocated to bolster school safety, hiring more security personnel and therapists, with the remaining $3.6 million supporting the district’s four charter schools.

Superintendent Chris Gdowski expressed gratitude to voters, especially in light of ongoing economic uncertainties. “We’re tremendously grateful to our community for approving this measure,” he stated. “We’re going to use the funds exactly as we said and get a really strong return on our investment. We owe that to our community.”

Despite this positive development, Gdowski warned that the district must remain cautious. As they prepare for the upcoming budget season, they must address anticipated limitations in state funding and a decline in enrollment. While the newly acquired funds may not elevate Adams 12 salaries to the highest levels among surrounding districts, they will significantly enhance the district’s competitive position.

Plans are already underway to incorporate the additional funds into next year’s budget, which will involve adjustments to salary schedules for educators, principals, and support staff. Gdowski acknowledged, “There’s a lot of work to do,” emphasizing the commitment to utilizing these resources effectively for the benefit of the students and community.

Stay tuned for further updates as Adams 12 moves forward with these vital improvements.