Quote:
Originally Posted by glowrock
Unfortunately, given the age of these schools, can you imagine the costs of retrofitting many of them to accomodate today's modern HVAC systems, not to mention the likely amount of asbestos and lead in these buildings?
The costs of upkeep and renovation on such beautiful buildings is one huge reason why Denver Public Schools is in such dire straits when it comes to its finances.
Sad, but true. Old, architecturally beautiful structures cost a LOT of money to keep up. Much more than new buildings.
Aaron (Glowrock)
|
Denver Public Schools are not in dire straits with their finances. Yes the age of these buildings are not conducive to helping conserve energy, hence I mention new windows. But to remain landmarks, little can be done to the structures. Denver tax payers have always approved bond issues for our schools, (just like we have done for our stadiums, airport, convention center, libraries/art museums, and most recently the light rail system). This support is unlike many other cities in the country. Most of these old schools have had significant additions to keep them competitive. Since my graduation, my High School, Denver West, almost doubled in size with a new swimming pool, library and international studies building.
The current problem facing DPS is low attendance and low scores on national standarized tests. Teachers salaries are based on the national level, which is horrid, and the amount of teachers in each school is based on how many kids attend. Additionally, if the scores are too low, DPS has a tough policy placed on that school and district. The school will litterally close as a public school and become a charter school. Almost 30 schools were closed this year due to low attendance. The attendance issue is due to neighborhoods like Highlands where there are so many young couples moving in, without children, due to massive renovations of the victorian homes there. My friends in Park Hill would rather send their kids to private schools due to the lack of a strong emphasis on the basics as well as the arts.