2025 Annual Report

"Your Investment. Our Commitment."

Dear Douglas County Resident,

Thank you for your partnership with the Douglas County School District (DCSD). In 2023 and 2024, Douglas County residents said yes to investing in our schools; and we truly cannot thank you enough. As good stewards of your hard earned dollars, it’s important that we provide you with transparent information about where the money goes and how it benefits kids; your return on investment as a taxpayer; and how your school district’s funding works.

Throughout this high-level report, you will see just how much there is to be proud of in our school district. For example:

• DCSD is the #1 performing school district in the Denver/Metro area!
• Our graduation rate is 92.2 percent! The highest it’s been in 15 years.
• The Class of 2024 earned more than $131 million in scholarships! 
• In 2024, students and parents saved nearly $9.3 million in college expenses through DCSD’s concurrent enrollment partnerships!

Every resident of Douglas County (whether you currently have children enrolled in our schools or not) is an important stakeholder in our school district. Therefore, I want to personally invite you to join me at a State of DCSD event on Thursday, May 8 at 6:00 p.m. at the Legacy Campus in Lone Tree where you can learn more about the current state of DCSD including challenges, celebrations, and our commitment to excellence. 

Thank you for supporting our students, teachers, and community. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out by emailing community@dcsdk12.org. 

Sincerely,

Erin Kane, Superintendent
Douglas County School District
 

Your Investments in Action

Thank you Douglas County for voting yes on two ballot initiatives that provide more funding to our schools. We are dedicated to ensuring that your dollars are being spent exactly as promised. 

How Our Schools are Funded

Where Our Revenue Comes From

The Colorado School Finance Act determines the amount of total funding for each school district each year. That funding comes from a combination of local property tax dollars and state tax dollars. However, it is important to know that when the local share increases, the state share decreases. 

Growth & Decline Challenges

• Douglas County spans 850+ square miles.
• Some areas are facing declining student enrollment.
  • DCSD made recommendations to consolidate six elementary schools into three. This will help ensure students have access to a comprehensive, well-rounded education with full staffing and resources. The recommendation also helps our school district to remain fiscally responsible. 
• Other areas are growing rapidly.
  • The 2024 Bond will fund construction of two new elementary schools in our fastest growing areas (RidgeGate and Sterling Ranch). 

Learn more