Denver is Reaching for More Say in Surrounding School Districts

City leaders in Denver are pushing for more control over local public schools, causing tension and division between them and the surrounding school districts.

This latest development comes as two council members, Amanda Sandoval and Serena Gonzales-Gutierrez, introduced a proposal to revive a joint committee between the city and the school district. This committee would aim to improve communication and collaboration between the two entities, including making policy recommendations on issues such as safety procedures.

But the plan has been met with resistance from the school board and district officials, who have accused the city of overstepping and not including their input on the proposal. In fact, school board President Xóchitl "Sochi" Gaytán expressed disgust over what she called "their overreach."

This tension between the city and the school district underscores a larger problem within the school board. It has been described as dysfunctional and divided, with mounting questions about their handling of school safety and other issues. This is not the first-time tensions have risen between the two entities, as former teacher and current Mayor Mike Johnston previously called out the school board for their behavior while on the campaign trail.

While some argue for a more "flexible and less formal approach to collaboration," the city maintains that deep collaboration is necessary for ongoing and sustained success. The full city council is expected to vote on the proposal next month, and if passed, it would not require the attendance of school officials, something that school board President Gaytán supports.

As the fight between the city of Denver and the school district continues, many are left wondering if the best interests of the students and their education are being prioritized in this battle for control.