To: Aurora Public Schools Board of Education
Let's Fund Our Aurora Public Schools AND Make Our Tax System More Fair!
As you well know, Colorado does not fund its public schools adequately. In fact, APS has faced challenging budgets year after year -- including a loss of $484 million in funding from 2009-2024 because of the Budget Stabilization Factor. Without a major change in Colorado's fiscal situation, it will be even worse next year.
But in the midst of this urgency there is great opportunity. In November, voters could have the opportunity to pass Initiative 195 – the Protect Colorado's Future ballot measure – which would raise $2 billion annually for K-12, child care and health care, while cutting taxes for all who make less than $500,000 per year.
Using conservative estimates, Initiative 195 will increase funding for public schools by at least $700 million annually, including an estimated $32 million for APS, by creating a graduated income tax that lowers taxes for 99.7% of Arapahoe County taxpayers.
But in the midst of this urgency there is great opportunity. In November, voters could have the opportunity to pass Initiative 195 – the Protect Colorado's Future ballot measure – which would raise $2 billion annually for K-12, child care and health care, while cutting taxes for all who make less than $500,000 per year.
Using conservative estimates, Initiative 195 will increase funding for public schools by at least $700 million annually, including an estimated $32 million for APS, by creating a graduated income tax that lowers taxes for 99.7% of Arapahoe County taxpayers.
Why is this important?
As our elected officials, you have the opportunity to take a critcal leadership role in making sure Initiative 195 qualifies for the ballot and passes in November.
The undersigned community members ask you to endorse Initiative 195 as soon as possible to send a message to the APS community: a more fair tax system and fully funded public schools that meet the needs of every student are within Colorado's reach. We just need the courage to choose that path.
The undersigned community members ask you to endorse Initiative 195 as soon as possible to send a message to the APS community: a more fair tax system and fully funded public schools that meet the needs of every student are within Colorado's reach. We just need the courage to choose that path.