Adams 12 officials analyze school closures and community feedback on preschool needs

The Northglenn City Council held a study session on June 2, 2025, focusing on key issues affecting local schools and economic development. The meeting began with discussions surrounding the recent trends in school enrollment and the implications for potential school closures and consolidations.

A significant point raised was the recent flattening of newcomer enrollment in schools, prompting caution before making decisions about closing any facilities. The speaker emphasized the importance of thorough analysis to avoid premature closures, citing past experiences where schools were closed only to later face increased demand. The need for community input regarding preschool offerings was also highlighted, as decisions about school size and potential closures could be influenced by whether families prefer on-site preschool services or are willing to travel for them.

Boundary changes were another critical topic, with the speaker noting that current school boundaries are often illogical due to past growth patterns. This has led to concerns from parents about their children attending multiple schools. The council discussed the potential for boundary adjustments alongside any school closures to create a more cohesive educational experience for students.

Financial implications of school closures were also addressed. The anticipated savings from closing a school were noted to be less significant than many might expect, with estimates around $1.2 million per elementary school. This amount, while substantial, represents only a small fraction of the district's overall budget, highlighting the complexity of financial planning in education.

The meeting also touched on the increasing number of students with special education needs, which has risen from 11% to over 14% in recent years. This increase has led to higher costs for specialized services, further complicating budget considerations.

In addition to educational topics, the council received an update on economic development initiatives. The Director of Economic Development, Lisonbee Moding, presented a report on projects from 2024 and a preview of developments in the first quarter of 2025. The director expressed enthusiasm about the engagement with the business community and the collaborative efforts to support new businesses in Northglenn.

The session concluded with a commitment to continue gathering community feedback and to keep residents informed about the financial realities facing the school district and the importance of upcoming mill levy overrides. The council members expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership between the city and the school district, emphasizing the shared goal of providing quality education and resources for students.