DPS finding new ways for budgeting the district, such as closing Palmer, pictured. photo by Paula Bieneman
DPS votes to close seven schools within the district due to issues with funding and enrollment.
The Denver Public Schools Board of Education voted unanimously to approve the closure of seven schools and the restructuring of three others for the 2025-2026 school year. The decision was announced on November 21 in response to significant challenges posed by declining enrollment, underutilized schools, and budget constraints. The school closures will affect the following schools: Columbian Elementary, Castro Elementary, Schmitt Elementary, International Academy of Denver at Harrington, Palmer Elementary, West Middle School, and Denver School of Innovation and Sustainable Design. Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy, Dora Moore ECE-8 School, and Baker Middle School will undergo programmatic changes as a part of the district’s restructuring efforts.
The primary factors driving the school closures are declining birth rates and the rising cost of living in Denver, which have both contributed to a gradual decrease in enrollment across not only DPS but other urban districts nationwide. As DPS’s executive of enrollment and campus planning Andrew Huber explained, “Across the country enrollment in major urban schools districts is declining. Denver is not immune to these pressures” (KDVR). Currently, many DPS schools operate well below capacity, with elementary schools only using 69% of their capacity on average. This underutilization of schools significantly increases per-student costs and strains the district’s budget. The closures are projected to save DPS $30 million, with $24 million being used for reinvestment in other schools.
The decision followed weeks of public comment, community input, and vigorous review of the data by the Board of Education, all while acknowledging the emotional toll on the affected families, alumni, staff, and students. Emphasizing the board’s necessity of consolidating resources in order to improve educational equity and sustainability across the district, District 1 board member Kimberlee Sia explained, “In order to make these things happen we need to work together and have the financial means available” (Denverite). In addition, the president of the Board of Education, Carrie Olson, expressed the Board’s commitment to supporting affected communities. “We approached this decision with care, recognizing the deep connections that students, staff, and families have to their schools. Our focus now is on ensuring a smooth and supportive transition for all impacted” (DPS). In order to help families navigate the closures, the district is providing community resources and sharing clear communication, including updates on the Denver Schools Thrive Initiative website. As for the 1,100 students and families dealing with the school closures, there are plans in the works for changes in enrollment zones during the school choice process in January. DPS officials have pledged to hold the superintendent accountable for ensuring a smooth transition and providing resources to both the closing schools, as well as the schools receiving additional students.
The decision to close down schools within the district is a part of a larger trend impacting urban schools districts nationwide. Declining birth rates and increased housing costs are reshaping public school systems, ultimately forcing school districts to make decisions to keep enrollment and funding balanced. While the closures aim to address the immediate challenges, the board and district leadership are also focused on fostering a stronger and equitable future for all students.
