Governor heads education forum on future of north metro schools

NORTHGLENN - Dawn Horras sits in the auditorium of Northglenn High School with her husband on one side and her two children on the other. She wanted to sacrifice a part of their Friday night to talk about a big problem.

"There are some problems in education, real big problems in education," said Horras.

Governor Bill Ritter (D-Colorado) and House Speaker Andrew Romanoff (D-Denver) topped off a list of state and local politicians on hand to listen to nearly 200 people voice their concerns on public schools during a forum entitled "Impact Now."

"I think it's important that we make sure as a state that every kid in Colorado has got a smart start, a top flight teacher in every classroom," said Romanoff.

The crowd was equipped with remote controls to provide instant feedback on questions posed by the emcee. The number one concern posed by the group was funding for the classroom. Horras has a different issue.

"The biggest issue is parent involvement," said Horras, "because the kids whose parents are involved are the ones who excel."

Business leaders talked about meeting students who don't possess the real world skills needed to succeed in the corporate world. Thornton City Council Member Jan Bach said teachers have too much to handle to be effective.

"So, we got new schools, but we still have ridiculous class sizes, ridiculous allocations of books," said Bach.

"And, I'm wondering what I can do to get involved," said Horras. "I was a volunteer in schools. The kids really need a lot of help."

The north metro area continues to grow. Teachers talked about the changing student population bringing different needs to the classroom. Ritter says this is exactly why this forum is needed, engaging in conversation that may lead to action.

"It's about an evolving population and the quality of life we want our kids and our grandkids to experience," said Ritter.

"Impact Now" was put on by Great Education Colorado, a non-partisan group devoted to the improvement of schools. Horras says she liked the discussion.

"I was pleased with what I heard and I think that they are making some progress," said Horras.