The Douglas County School District is seeking approval from voters for a $490 million bond to build new schools and improve existing ones, especially in Highlands Ranch where declining enrollment has led to the closure of some elementary schools. Superintendent Erin Kane mentioned that the district had seen a decrease in the number of elementary students in the area and the bond money would be used to consolidate schools and make necessary improvements to the buildings. The largest portion of the bond, $150 million, would go towards constructing new schools, including elementary schools in Sterling Ranch/Solstice and RidgeGate community, as well as an expansion for Sierra Middle School in Parker. Importantly, the bond would not increase property taxes for residents. This request comes at a time when surrounding districts are asking for nearly a billion dollars in funding, raising the question of whether voters will approve the bond after rejecting a similar request last year. The school board is set to vote in the spring on which elementary schools to close in Highlands Ranch in order to address the shifting demographic trends.
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Douglas County School District seeks approval for $490 million bond from voters
