A coalition of Woodland Park parents, business leaders and community members have joined to oppose Issue 2A in the November election.

“The Woodland Park School Community Coalition supports the No vote on ballot issue 2a,” said Michael Perini, registered agent. “It’s an important issue to ensure needed funding for our children’s education.

“We want to educate and inform Woodland Park resident voters about this necessary school funding. A ‘no’ vote on 2a supports local students, staff and the community by continuing the city sales tax as-is, which Woodland Park voted for in 2016.

“A ‘No’ vote on 2a is a vote to not strip current critical funds from the district.”

The Woodland Park school district is currently ranked 18/184 Colorado districts, placing it among the top 10% in the state.

Perini said the educational funding is critical for the success of our students, schools and community.

“While the Woodland Park school district is on the tail end of the declining enrollment bubble, it takes several years to stabilize that loss of student funding,” he said. “Additionally, when inflation is considered, Colorado is funding students at 1989 rates. Furthermore, our school facilities continue to need improvements and maintenance.”

The coalition says the Woodland Park School District has made significant improvements over the past three years, including:

• raising staff salaries

• securing full-time, qualified security guards within the schools

• promoting open enrollment and school choice for all families

• further strengthening the quality of education for our children

• addressing several pressing and needed facility improvements; and

• keeping school-related activity and athletic fees to a minimum

“WPSD needs this funding to maintain its top 10% spot in Colorado and continue to offer the high-quality education our kids deserve,” the group said in a press release. “The facility budget needs alone exceed $30 million. Teachers deserve secure jobs and competitive salaries. Students deserve a quality education in Woodland Park.”

The group also said that strong schools attract new residents, support local business and improve the economy.

“Current residents win, as property values also trend alongside the academic achievements and growth of their local schools,” Perini said.