Tensions Rise Ahead of Denver School Board Vote on Superintendent’s Contract
As the Denver School Board prepares for a pivotal vote on Superintendent Alex Marrero’s contract extension this Thursday, board members are voicing opinions on the matter. The current contract does not expire until June 2025, prompting some directors, including Xochitl Gaytan and Scott Esserman, to argue that there’s ample time until September for a decision on a new contract. Their concerns extend beyond timing: four of the board’s seven seats will also be contested in November.
Marrero’s annual compensation of $346,000, accompanied by a performance bonus, has sparked discussion among community members about the value of his leadership. Board members assert that reducing Marrero’s salary could lead to diminished leadership quality. “He earns the value that he brings to the district as an Afro-Latino bilingual superintendent,” stated Gaytan, emphasizing that Marrero is underpaid relative to the size of the district, which serves approximately 90,000 students and employs over 20,000 staff.
Supporters highlight the achievements during Marrero’s tenure, particularly a record graduation rate of 80%, a significant milestone for Denver Public Schools. “He’s got the right materials, he’s got the right people in place, and we’re seeing that,” Esserman remarked.
Simultaneously, a letter from several members of the Denver Latino community has urged the board to reconsider any re-evaluation of Marrero’s contract, reflecting the diverse opinions on the superintendent’s future. As the board gears up for discussions, the community remains watchful regarding the implications of this decision for Denver’s educational landscape.
A vote of confidence or a call for change could shape the direction of Denver Public Schools for years to come.
