2024 Legislative Session Policy Spotlight: This is the third in a series in which we highlight the policies passed during the last legislative session and how they will impact Colorado learners.

Colorado has made a historic shift in its public school funding model, marking the first major update in more than thirty years. The previous formula, which was outdated and complex, favored wealthier districts over those serving students with greater instructional needs, has been replaced by a new, student-centered approach.

This new model not only simplifies the funding process but also prioritizes at-risk students, English Language Learners, rural communities, and students receiving special education services, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are needed most. With an additional $500 million invested to support these changes, Colorado has made a major step forward in prioritizing educational equity.

Colorado Succeeds has long advocated for a students-first formula that prioritizes students. We were honored to serve on the School Finance Task Force that developed recommendations that were ultimately the foundation for the legislation. Read below to discover how the new School Finance bill, passed in this most recent legislative session, will impact schools, students, and communities across Colorado.