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What They're Saying: Colorado Ranked #1 in Education by US News and World Report

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DENVER - Today, Governor Jared Polis and education leaders in Colorado celebrated Colorado being ranked #1 in Education by US News and World Report. Highlighting Colorado's dedication and leadership in expanding educational opportunities for all Coloradans.

"This recognition proves that when we invest in our students, educators and institutions, we can make meaningful progress. Over the years, we've taken important steps to meet student needs at every academic level and set up Colorado students for success no matter where their academic journey takes them. From modernizing our K-12 funding formula to lowering the cost of higher education, we've invested in long-term strategies that have made a difference. This recognition is important, but we still have work to do to adequately fund our K-12 schools. Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to support education in Colorado and our students," said Speaker of the House Julie McCluskie, D-Dillon.

"This is proof that investing in our students and fully funding our schools works. Our commitment to ensuring that all Colorado learners get the education they need to be successful is why we are #1. I look forward to building on our success, continuing to deliver results, and supporting our students and educators every step of the way," said Senate President James Coleman.

"This shows that in Colorado, we know how to put our education dollars to good use," said Senator Jeff Bridges. "From fully funding kindergarten to more than half of all high school grads taking college-level courses, Colorado leads the nation in results. It means that when we invest, we make a difference in the lives of kids. No doubt there's more work to do, and today proves we're up to the challenge."

"I am excited that Colorado is being recognized as #1 in education. This recognition belongs to our teachers who have persevered through difficult budget years and underfunded schools. This achievement reminds us that while we are on the right track, there is still more work to do to fully fund our schools. I am especially proud of our investments in early childhood education, free universal preschool, and free school meals, which are preparing students for a lifetime of learning and delivering better health outcomes for our youngest learners. Adequately funded public schools are the cornerstone of our education ecosystem, and we must continue the work to ensure that every student has access to the world-class education they deserve," said JBC Chair Rep. Emily Sirota, D-Denver.

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"Colorado's colleges and universities provide an excellent return on investment for our alumni and our state as a whole. To see our state celebrated in this way acknowledges all the hard work that has gone into getting us to this point. Colorado must continue to sustain and build on that investment as the bridge to healthy communities and a healthy economy for our state," said Todd Saliman, President of the University of Colorado.

"Boys & Girls Clubs in Colorado are proud to celebrate this remarkable recognition of our students, teachers, and school partners. This achievement reflects the progress that is possible when we invest in children across the full continuum of their education, including high-quality afterschool and summer programs. We thank Governor Polis for recognizing the vital role afterschool programs play in closing opportunity gaps for kids and for his leadership investing in them. Sustaining and expanding that commitment must remain a priority as Colorado builds on this milestone to ensure every child, in every community can succeed," said Stuart Jenkins, Executive Director, Colorado Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs.

"Colorado educators have worked incredibly hard to ensure every student meets their highest potential. Every student needs a champion who cares about their success, and our teachers have shown up to be that champion!," said Janet Damon, 2025 Colorado Teacher of the Year.

"Colorado's rise to the top in education is built district by district, classroom by classroom. In D11, we are one of the few districts growing enrollment because we have embraced parent choice and built the schools and programs families demand. We have raised teacher salaries year after year while cutting $10 million in central expenditures and redirecting resources to classrooms. That focus is delivering results: math and literacy outcomes continue to rise, while the number of schools and students on the state accountability watchlist continues to fall," said Superintendent Michael Gaal.

"Every child deserves access to an excellent education that prepares them for success in life. From investing in our youngest learners to supporting students to and through higher education, Colorado has made incredible strides that have led us to achieve this honor," said Jen Walmer. "I am proud of our collective work to support students, educators, and parents to ensure that every child thrives."

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"Colorado's students are as diverse as our incredible state, and no single educational model can meet every child's unique needs. That's why public school choice and charter schools have been a cornerstone of Colorado's education landscape for decades. When families have real options among high-quality public schools, students win. Being named the #1 state in the nation for education affirms that our long-standing commitment to school choice and excellence is the right path forward," said Dan Schaller, President of the Colorado League of Charter Schools.

"Young children in Colorado have more opportunities than ever before to access high-quality early childhood education, and our state's strong showing in this report reflects our remarkable progress in recent years," said Heather Tritten, President and CEO of the Colorado Children's Campaign. "Colorado has been steadily building an early childhood system to support kids and families, including full-day kindergarten, universal preschool, and a state-level Department of Early Childhood. These investments help set children up to thrive in school and in life - and our communities and our state will grow stronger with them."

"When we invest early, we don't just help one child, we change what's possible for an entire generation," said Santhosh Ramdoss, CEO of Gary Community Ventures. "Colorado's students earned this ranking, and it proves what's possible when we put our kids first. But number one isn't the finish line, it's just the beginning. If we want every child in this state to be ready for school from day one we must keep investing."

"A strong talent pipeline is one of the most important drivers of a competitive economy, and that starts with our education system. We're proud of the recent progress we've made in partnership with the governor's office to align talent pathways and ensure Coloradans are equipped with the skills employers need. As we work to improve Colorado's overall competitiveness, education will continue to play a key role in attracting businesses to the state and maintaining a healthy economic climate," said Loren Furman, President & CEO, Colorado Chamber of Commerce.

"This recognition reflects the shared commitment of educators, families, school leaders, and communities across our state. I am proud of the work of the Colorado Department of Education to support policies that strengthen public education, expand opportunity, and help ensure every student has the knowledge and skills to succeed in school, in their careers, and in life," said Rebecca McClellan, Chair of the Colorado State Board of Education.

"With nearly 40 percent of students attending a public school of choice, our state's bipartisan commitment to school choice has helped more families find the right fit for their children and contributed to Colorado's national leadership in education," said Brenda Dickhoner, President and CEO of Ready Colorado.

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