Superintendent Smith champions equity and education funding at Cherry Creek School District

During the Cherry Creek School Board of Education meeting held on February 10, 2025, Superintendent Scott Smith emphasized the district's commitment to inclusivity and educational equity, while also addressing significant budgetary challenges facing public education in Colorado.

In his remarks, Superintendent Smith reaffirmed the district's core values, stating, "It doesn't matter your race, your religion, who you love, how you identify. We welcome you here. Cherry Creek is a family." He highlighted ongoing efforts to support undocumented and immigrant families, including resources to help them understand their rights. Smith stressed the importance of ensuring that all students feel valued and cared for, not just during specific months of recognition, but throughout the entire school year.

A critical point of discussion was the drastic cuts proposed at the state level, which Smith argued have historically placed an undue burden on public education. He stated, "The state budget has been balanced on the back of public education for the last 15 years. It's someone else's turn." Smith called for a collective effort to advocate for adequate funding for all students in Colorado, emphasizing that the district will continue to engage with state lawmakers to address these issues.

The meeting also included an operations update from Chief Financial Officer Scott Smith, who reported on the progress of various construction projects funded by a recently passed $950 million bond. Key projects include the expansion of the Cherry Creek Innovation Center and the construction of new facilities at several schools. Smith noted that while some projects are slightly under budget, others, like the pool at Overland High School, have faced cost underestimations. He assured the board that contingency plans are in place to manage these financial challenges.

Enrollment trends were another focal point, with the district experiencing a decline in student numbers, attributed to broader demographic shifts and rising living costs. The CFO indicated that while enrollment is expected to continue declining in the short term, projections suggest a potential increase in the coming years due to anticipated growth in the local population.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the district's food service operations, which have expanded significantly post-pandemic, now serving approximately 40,000 meals daily. The importance of nutrition in supporting student well-being was underscored, with plans for a new nutrition warehouse to enhance service capabilities.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the Cherry Creek School District's commitment to equity, the challenges posed by state budget cuts, and the ongoing efforts to improve educational facilities and services for all students. The board's next steps will likely involve continued advocacy for funding and strategic planning to address enrollment and operational needs.