Denver Voters Demand Safety: Shocking Survey Reveals Majority Doubt School Security, Urgent Call for Police Officers
Only a slim majority of Denver voters, a mere 51%, feel that the city's public schools provide a safe environment for their children. The poll, conducted in August, also indicated that nearly two-thirds of voters support the reinstatement of police officers in schools, particularly in light of the high-profile shootings that occurred in the previous school year.
9% of Denver voters consider student safety as the topmost priority, on par with retaining and recruiting good teachers. This finding showcases the deep-rooted concerns regarding school safety that parents and community members harbor.
The upcoming school board election in November takes on heightened significance as it will directly impact policies and decisions related to student safety. The results of the poll underscore the immediate attention that must be given to this pressing issue.
The data reveals an alarming public perception of the school board itself. A staggering 55% of respondents hold an unfavorable opinion of the board, while only 22% view it favorably. The board's public image is marred by this negativity, which is even more pronounced among parents who have a largely negative perception of its effectiveness.
Delving deeper into the survey results, it becomes evident that a significant proportion of Denver voters, 38%, do not believe that the district's schools provide a safe environment for their children. These findings cannot be dismissed lightly, as they reveal a substantial lack of confidence in the security measures and policies currently in place.
An additional 11% of voters remain unsure about the safety of DPS schools, signaling a need for more transparent and effective communication regarding safety protocols.