A lawsuit has been filed by a group of parents against Denver Public Schools to prevent the closure of seven schools at the end of the academic year. The group, known as Mamas de DPS LLC, is a public interest limited liability company focused on ensuring quality, equality, and accessibility of public education. The lawsuit aims to halt the closures and seeks damages from an education consultant hired by DPS.
The lawsuit alleges that DPS and Superintendent Alex Marrero wrongfully directed funds to charter schools operated by private corporations. The closure of the schools was recommended by Marrero due to declining enrollment and funding losses.
The school board voted to close five elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school, while three other schools will see a reduction in grades and enrollment. Marrero had also proposed closing 10 schools in 2022 but faced resistance from the board. This time, the board cited financial constraints as the reason for the closures.
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Originally Published: December 20, 2024 at 11:12 AM MST