FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2020
CEA Statement on Governor’s Proposed State Budget
DENVER, CO – Statement from Amie Baca-Oehlert, high school counselor and president of the Colorado Education Association on public education funding in Gov. Jared Polis’ proposed state budget for FY 2021-22:
“The 39,000 members of the Colorado Education Association are cautiously optimistic about the Governor’s budget proposal for the 2021-22 fiscal year. His proposal to prioritize K-12 education by adding $811 million back into public education funding, bringing the overall budget stabilization factor back to pre-COVID levels at $572 million, is a good first step in recovering precious funding for Colorado students and educators.
“Colorado educators have been resolute in demanding the funding our students’ deserve and we are appreciative that our collective voice has been heard. This is just the first step, however, as CEA looks forward to working with legislators in the upcoming legislative session to ensure that students and educators are at the forefront in all budget discussions.
“Cautious optimism gives way to the stark reality, however, that voters must vote to defeat Propositions 116 and 117 and pass Amendment B and Proposition EE. We know that the forecast for next year won’t likely be as good, so it is imperative that Colorado voters prioritize public education funding in tomorrow’s election. Colorado’s students are our most precious resource and have gone without adequate support for far too long and it is long past time to make them a priority.”
About the Colorado Education Association
The Colorado Education Association is a membership-based organization that represents 39,000 Colorado educators. The CEA promise to our students and communities is that the members of the Association will lead the way in guaranteeing every student access to the best public education. By working collectively with all education stakeholders, we will provide the best public education for every student and assure Colorado’s standing as an excellent state in which to learn, live, work, and raise a family.
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