EDITOR: Imagine making a family budget, planning for food, rent, childcare, and then, days before the month begins, your paycheck is cut with no notice.
That’s what just happened to Aurora Public Schools.
Right before the new school year began, the federal government froze nearly $6 million in funds that had already been promised. This money wasn’t for extras. It was for teacher training, mental health support, language programs, and after-school care.
Gone. With no warning. After the budget was set. After staff were hired. After programs were in motion.
And we are not alone. Colorado lost $80 million in total. Nationwide, over $6.8 billion was pulled back at the last minute. Now 25 states, including Colorado, are suing to get that money restored, because this isn’t just wrong. It’s devastating.
What’s at Stake in Aurora
- $1.5 million for professional development that helps teachers serve our students better
- $1.4 million for English Language Learners, students building a new life and language
- $939,000 for programs that keep schools safe, healthy, and tech-supported
- $600,000 for after-school programs that keep kids engaged, supported, and safe
- That adds up to 81 teachers’ worth of resources, potentially gone.
And it couldn’t come at a worse time. Our students are still recovering from the learning loss and trauma of the pandemic. They need more support, not less.
This isn’t politics. This is kids’ lives, teachers’ jobs, and families’ peace of mind.
Here is What You Can Do
If this feels unfair, it’s because it is. But there is something you can do.
Contact your members of Congress. Tell them to restore the funds immediately.
- Senator Michael Bennet – Write to him
- Senator John Hickenlooper – Write to him
- Rep. Jason Crow (CO-06) – Write to him
- Rep. Diana DeGette (CO-01) – Write to her
- Rep. Joe Neguse (CO-02) – Write to him
These funds were promised. Our schools planned around them. Our kids shouldn’t be collateral damage. We don’t need new money. We need the money that was already approved and expected. Every parent, teacher, and neighbor in Aurora deserves to know this and to act on it.
Please, share this. Make the call. Send the email.
Because when we stay silent, our kids pay the price.
Anne Keke, PhD is the board president for Aurora Public Schools and an advocate for public education.