» Priorities » K-12 Education
We speak up for K-12 education so that all youth believe they belong, feel vital to their communities, and have the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive in adolescence and beyond.
As Colorado has grown, the Colorado Children’s Campaign has worked to make sure our state is investing in K-12 education and creating a system of high-quality schools. The Campaign has helped elevate the importance of funding schools equitably and helped the state make important changes to how it distributes resources; launched Full-Day Kindergarten, focused on strong standards, curriculum, and assessments; and pushed for educational opportunity for all.
Creating a high-quality system of schools: The Campaign helped Colorado become an innovator and a leader in school choice, helping the state create an ecosystem of schools that meet students’ diverse needs.
Supporting high-quality academics and school readiness: How does Colorado support children’s access to an excellent education? From the School Readiness Act, legislation to support teachers and leaders, the READ ACT, and more, The Campaign has been a voice for evidence-based approaches to support children’s learning.
Keeping public school funded fully and well: The Campaign has helped make sure K-12 education is a priority in the state’s budget, leading an update of the state’s school funding formula in 2024 to ensure that the state’s resources are reaching the schools and students that need them.
Creating a more equitable school system: The Campaign uses data and research to understand what’s happening in schools, whether it’s trends in dropout rates, disparities in school discipline, or changes to students’ mental health – and where that data is missing, the organization advocates for better data.
OUR PRIORITIES
- School finance modernization
- Closing opportunity and achievement gaps
- Options for all students
- Positive school climates
- Federal advocacy
- Fiscal reform
- Data improvements
Recent legislative highlights
New School Funding Formula (HB25-1320)
Colorado will begin using a new formula to fund public schools that prioritizes students from low-income families, English learners, students with disabilities, and rural communities. This shift will help target resources to where they are needed most.
Healthy School Meals for All (HB25-1274)
In November 2025, Colorado voters will consider two measures that would help the state fund the Healthy School Meals for All program. One would allow the state to retain additional revenue from Prop FF. The other would adjust income tax deductions to increase funding.
Funding Equity for Public Charter Students
State-authorized public charter schools will continue to receive the same funding per pupil as school districts. Preserving this policy ensures all public schools receive the resources they need to support their students.
School Climate (HB25-1248)
Schools will have new guardrails and clearer data reporting requirements related to restraint and seclusion as part of the state’s continuing effort to understand and improve schools’ climates.
