Aurora Public Schools

School districts across the Denver metro area are returning to in-person learning with varied start dates, new phone policies, and updated bell schedules. Aurora Public Schools and others have implemented 'bell-to-ball' phone bans, while Jefferson County Public Schools continues security measures following a high-profile shooting.

Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman claimed Aurora Public Schools violated drought water restrictions and paid fines, prompting a dispute. Aurora Water clarified that the district faced surcharges, not fines, under a variance program for large irrigators. The school district denied paying fines and emphasized commitment to water conservation.

Colorado's 20 largest school districts have adopted cellphone policies by a state deadline, with approaches ranging from full bans during school hours to hybrid rules allowing limited use for high school students. The policies aim to reduce classroom distractions and improve mental health, though some students and parents argue for phone access for emergencies and practical needs.

Colorado colleges and universities are forming direct admissions agreements with school districts to guarantee automatic admission for high school graduates meeting specific GPA requirements. These partnerships aim to reduce college application stress, encourage in-state attendance, and improve access for low-income students, with varying eligibility criteria across institutions.