Archive for 2009

Here is a collection of stories collected from Lewis Palmer School District #38, highlighting how cuts affect all aspects of our kids’ educations.

East Grand Middle School Counselor Lynn Cassidy:

“Parents and students need to have a non-administrative contact within the school to voice their needs. I am the voice for many of our at-risk and marginalized families who are struggling just to survive at this critical time in our county. The school counselor provides this link between school and community.”

In a landmark ruling that provides legal recourse to children in severely underfunded schools, the Colorado Supreme Court today reinstated a lawsuit alleging that Colorado’s school funding system does not meet constitutional standards.
From the Denver Post:
In an opinion that could have profound implications for the state budget, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled today that a group of plaintiffs has the right to challenge whether the state provides an adequate level of funding for schools.In a 4-3 decision, the state’s high court overturned the ruling of two lower courts that said …

The falling red line on this graph documents how Colorado’s per pupil funding compares to the national average. Read on and print out this fact sheet of questions for school board members and legislators.

Were you there? You might be in one of these photos. We had a great time at this year’s tennis event, take a look!

Great Education Colorado is a statewide, nonpartisan, grassroots organization that is focused on improving education in Colorado through wise, increased investment in our schools, colleges and universities.

Was on Oct. 4th 3-5pm
The first Great Education Colorado Volunteer Day was at the Resource Area for Teachers (RAFT), which provides a tangible, effective way to help kids and teachers.  We did the set-up work. You put together low cost electric circuit kits and DNA models for teachers who need hands-on, interactive student experiences at bargain basement prices.  All materials were donated from businesses who would normally discard the items.  It’s a WIN/WIN for everyone! Check out our photos over on Flickr.

click here to take the pledge
Now more than ever, our kids need us to invest in their future – and that starts with a great education. As parents, educators, employers and citizens we know that inaction is no longer an option. Endorse the pledge now!

On August 13, 2009, the Building Excellent Schools Today (BEST) Program kicked off at the State Capitol and in Hooper, CO at Sangre de Cristo Elementary School after the financing was secured to start constructing four brand new state of the art buildings in the San Luis Valley, replacing schools built in the 1920s. BEST marks the most significant investment in Colorado school construction since statehood. In this clip, State Treasurer Cary Kennedy, who helped design and pass the BEST program, discusses Great Education Colorado’s role in its creation.

Congrats to Sam Adams, comedian, sports guy and Great Ed Video star, who defeated all comers in the amateur competition at the Great American Comedy Festival.
Even better, Sam was invited to compete with the pros, and has advanced to the finals at the Johnny Carson Theater in Norfolk, Nebraska.