Activist says Jamie Giellis lying about role in homeless tiny houses project

Activist says Jamie Giellis lying about role in homeless tiny houses project read more: http://northdenvernews.com/tag/Jamie-Giellis An activist and former nonprofit exact of director has charged Denver mayoral candidate Jaime Giellis with lying about her level of involvement in the creation of a pathbreaking homelessness prevention project. The story exploded virally over the past week, as homeless advocate PJ Damico took on a claim made by Giellis in a campaign email. Damico’s charge that Giellis is lying underscores the fundamental weaknesses is her candidacy— her very thin Denver roots and the fact her campaign appears to be the wholly owned subsidiary of a handful of Denver developers. Damico posted on Facebook: “I want to set the record straight. Aside from having RINO send a reluctant letter of support after the train had left the station Jamie Giellis(candidate for mayor) had NOTHING to do with creating the tiny home village in RiNo and of course neither did Michael Hancock until after many of us were arrested and forced the issue into the New York Times.” “After securing the land many efforts I made to seek support from the developers in RiNo (Kyle, Andrew and others — all Jamie’s primary backers fell on deaf ears). Ask Jamie how much money RINO committed to the village? Ask her is she went to a single zoning meeting? Ask her how many nights she slept outside over the past four years to get the tiny home village established. Ask her how many times she was arrested? Ask her if she has a restraining order for her activism? “ “This is what makes me sick about neoliberal policiticans being trumped up by the very developer interests ruining our city. “ “ I was there. You were not. How can we trust you if your very Campaign is a lie!!!!” The comments on the original post became a firestorm of their own. Damico charged, “Jamie was also put up by Andrew and Kyle Zeppelin as their crony capitalist to sabotage Lisa Calderon’s campaign the backstory as bloody as hell but there’s no way ‘Jamie can be elected mayor she represents the worst interest of our city.” http://jamiegiellis.com https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7RMTRCAAPsYaRKyPHvYgTg #JamieGiellis,#DenverMayor, #Denver

Mayor Michael Hancock's $14 million sign boondoggle

“14 million bucks is a lot of money,” one traveler said Tuesday, echoing the concerns of others.” In December of 2016, Denver officials told FOX31 it would take, at most, eight years to get the cost back in advertising dollars. The city has only seen a fraction of return and now says it could take a decade to break even. To help solve the problem, city leaders are hoping OUTFRONT Media LLC will have the expertise to drum up business and see the money pour into airport coffers. The firm would receive a fee from advertisers and pay the airport $150,000 or 67 percent of the gross ad sales, according to the airport. DIA admits it wasn’t proactively selling ads in 2018 and only grossed $21,000 on the mega investment. “I think the money in the bank would’ve done a better return,” a Denver tourist told FOX31.

Tay Anderson strongest school board candidate Denver Public Schools 2019

Safeguarding our Neighborhood Schools Neighborhood schools, when robustly invested in, can be the change agents for our most marginalized students. They can close achievement gaps and prepare students for college. The closing of neighborhood schools is a burden for parents and creates challenges in equity for students. I will work to recover and safeguard neighborhood schools and curb charter school expansion. Not one more neighborhood school closure! Investing In Our Teachers We have a huge challenge ahead of us in hiring, recruiting, and retaining more teachers. I will focus on creating a rich, dynamic work environment for teachers, while also working to redefine the standards by which teachers are evaluated. The success of our teachers cannot be judged by tests! We have a responsibility to lift our teachers up so our students can take on the world. School to Prison Pipelines. According to the Department of Education, in the United States, black students make up 18 percent of children enrolled in preschools, and 48 percent of these kids experience more than one out-of-school suspension. Creating a culturally rich curriculum and doubling down on diversity training for teachers and staff can go a long way in putting students of color on the road to success, not prison! Diversity is our Strength Denver is home to an amazingly diverse population. District four is a minority majority district with well over half the student population being students of color. How wonderful that our children are exposed to the diversity available in our district! Schools should foster a safe learning environment for students to thrive and take advantage of all the opportunities that come with a high school diploma. Homeless Students I have experienced homelessness and I know what it feels like to be on your own. I was labeled an unaccompanied youth by Denver Public Schools. To those students and families who have been homeless- I understand what you are going through. We won't let our situations hinder us from our education. I will always put our students first. We will make more programs available to our students, because every student is bigger than their story! Lunch Program We need to improve our lunch program in Denver Public Schools so that all students have the sufficient nutrients they deserve. The majority of our students do not like the lunch program, and I will be traveling the district listening to our students to hear what they want. As a member of the Denver School Board, I will bring a new lunch plan before the board so we can spark a discussion to put our students lunch as a priority.

Another Strike vs The Background Of Bad Education Reform - AnneRoweDPS.com

http://annerowedps.com/2019/02/05/denver-another-strike-versus-the-background-of-bad-education-reform/ https://annerowedps.com/ Back in 2005, the district employed Michael Bennet, who had no background in education but was the mayor's chief of personnel with a background in turning around stopping working business for an financial investment company. Bennet brought in other outsiders to form a community group (A+ Denver) along with some other education philanthropists to "pressure" the district. The chosen design was a portfolio model. Think of this type of design as a forced merger in between public and charter schools, with the resulting entity run by charter viewpoint. Or, offered the portfolio focus on continually closing bottom-ranked schools, you can believe of the portfolio model as trying to fire your method to quality on the institutional scale. Since 2005, Denver has closed 48 schools and opened 70; most of the brand-new schools are charter schools. Denver under portfolios is a slow-motion design of turning a public school system personal, a New Orleans without a Katrina to clean out the public system in one fell swoop. To keep the ed reform model in place requires a Denver school board that is reform-friendly, and so the politics and loan surrounding Denver school board races have actually been abnormally tempestuous. By 2013, huge loan was a regular feature of the elections, with the 2015 race illustration hundreds of thousands of out-of-state contributions, most funneled through Democrats for Education Reform and their activist arm, Education Reform Now Action (ERNA is not needed to recognize its factors). Twenty fifteen marked a effective race for reform prospects, however 2017, though it featured even more loan (almost three-quarters of a million from ERNA alone) saw 2 of the 4 reform-supporting incumbents defeated. Turns out not everyone thinks the reformsters are headed in the right direction.

YouTube Domain Recovery - What is it? Get the scoop

This was the Golden Grail of Targeted Organic Traffic! All of this was hitting me so fast, my head was reeling from the possibilities! So I did what any marketer would do. I went and replaced the page I was working on with a redirect to a golf related offer :-)

Millions in administrator bonuses revealed as Denver teachers prep for strike

more: http://northdenvernews.com/millions-in-administrator-bonuses-revealed-as-denver-teachers-prep-for-strike A public information request from a Denver parent has landed another bombshell in the middle of a contentious battle between teachers and central administrators in Denver Public Schools. #Denver, #DPS, #ednews, #denverschools, #denverteachersstrike @DPSNewsNow

Denver teachers strike over a broken pay system

read more: https://northdenvernews.com/denver-teacher-likely-to-strike-over-a-broken-pay-system/ Denver teachers likely to strike over a broken pay system #denver #edcolo #DPS #betterdenver #denverschools

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Polling shows strong support for Denver teachers as strike looms

Four of five Denver residents say they support Denver teachers in their contentious salary negotiations with Denver Public Schools, according to a new survey of about 600 randomly selected community members.

Live telephone interviews held Jan. 7-10 with 603 likely Denver voters show 79% of respondents agree that teacher pay in Denver falls short of what it ought to be. With the 'ProComp' compensation system set to expire this Friday (Jan. 18), 82% of voters say they would support teachers if the Denver Classroom Teacher Association and DPS cannot reach a new agreement this week. When asked about a possible strike, 62% are in favor of Denver teachers going on strike this month until they can reach agreement with the DPS Board over pay levels.

The parents of DPS students who took part in the survey demonstrated even stronger support for the teachers on these questions, shown in the following pie charts:

Additionally, 74% of respondents held a positive view of Denver teachers, whereas only 33% reported a positive view of the DPS Board. Nearly half of the respondents want the board to take a real change of direction.

DCTA has been negotiating with the district for more than a year to improve compensation and address Denver's teacher turnover crisis. Teachers are dissatisfied working under a salary system that restricts base pay in favor of awarding one-time incentives and bonuses that most district employees find very unreliable and unpredictable.

"Educators want to plan for their future, whether to start a family or buy a home. Denver teachers cannot make these decisions if they don't know how much salary they're making from year-to-year. Teachers become frustrated and many leave – this is why DPS has such an extremely high teacher turnover rate," said DCTA President Henry Roman. "Our students deserve the best teachers DPS can offer, and right now, the district is not doing enough to keep quality teachers in our classrooms."

The survey was conducted by Harstad Strategic Research, Inc., a national public opinion research firm based in Boulder. A random sample of 603 voters gives at least a 95% confidence level that any responses are within 4% (plus-or-minus) of the reported percentage.

"We need to keep our teachers in Denver. Our teachers deserve fair wages, and this poll shows the community wants the district to provide a competitive salary schedule that prioritizes keeping quality teachers in Denver," Roman observed. "We are committed to reaching a fair contract with DPS through the negotiation process this week, but should this matter go unresolved and result in a strike, Denver teachers are confident the community will support its teachers and will demand the district pay all educators a professional wage."

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Polling shows strong support for Denver teachers as strike looms - Denver Teacher's Strike

79% of respondents agree that teacher pay in Denver falls short 82% of voters say they would support teachers if the DCTA & DPS cannot reach a new agreement this week. @DPSnewsnow #betterdenver 62% are in favor of Denver teachers going on strike this month @DPSnewsnow #betterdenver

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Judge nixes citizenship question on Census, but immigrant groups are 'skeptical and very afraid'

Minority and civil rights activists applauded Tuesday's court decision overruling the Trump administration's plan to include a question regarding citizenship status on the 2020 Census.

But in Denver's Park Hill neighborhood, where several groups hosted an informational meeting about the Census, there was no celebration.

Community members still worry that the question, "Is this person a citizen of the United States?" will show up on the Census, despite the court ruling.

And even if the question is excluded, many worry that immigrant households will still avoid filling out the Census form, fearing police scrutiny or deportation. Uncounted households skew Census data, and that can have negative long-term effects on communities, including under-representation in legislatures and Congress and disproportionately small shares of tax revenues and government benefits. 

The legal battle over the citizenship question has intensified existing insecurity among both mixed-status and undocumented communities.

 "A lot of the damage is already done," said Gillian Winbourn, project director for Together We Count Colorado.

Francisco Hernandez, a student at Metropolitan State University and a DACA recipient, said that distrust of the government goes far beyond the Census. "[The immigrant community is] very skeptical and very afraid, with the current climate. It discourages them from getting involved with government officials. They're afraid that their information might be handed over to ICE," he said.

However, Hernandez pointed out, the citizenship question may make people even more fearful of the Census. "If the [citizenship] question is on the form, then I'm not sure if my mom will share her information."

Tuesday's event, hosted by The League of Women Voters, Colorado Common Cause, Together We Count, and Mi Familia Vota, informed attendees about the importance of ensuring that all communities are fully counted by the Census. Patrick Potyondy, policy manager for Colorado Common Cause, outlined five key areas that Census data affects: how many seats each state receives in the House of Representatives, legislative and congressional redistricting, the allocation of federal funds to states, legislative decision-making, and civil rights enforcement. "Unless we have really good data, we can't make good decisions," he said.

Potyondy explained that if the citizenship question is included in the Census, "It will discourage people from answering, and it's particularly discouraging for immigrant communities and refugee communities. It [will have] a really broad impact. If you have one individual whose legal status might be unknown, then that whole household you're trying to count may not answer [the Census,]" he said.

The issue made headlines Tuesday morning when a federal judge in Manhattan blocked the Commerce Department, which oversees the Census Bureau, from adding the citizenship question. Wilbur Ross, the Commerce Department secretary, previously stated that the question was added at the request of Justice Department to aid enforcement of the Voting Rights Act, which prohibits racial discrimination in voting. In the past, the Justice Department has used data from the American Community Survey, which does inquire into citizenship status, for this purpose.

However, the Justice Department did not formulate citizenship question on its own. Ross began considering adding citizenship question soon after he became Commerce secretary, and met with other government officials to inquire "whether the Department of Justice would support, and if so would request, inclusion of a citizenship question," according to a memo Ross wrote on June 21.

Mi Familia Vota, a national civic engagement organization, released a statement Tuesday: "Today's ruling indicates that the Trump administration's decision to add a citizenship question to the 2020 census was unlawful and egregious. The administration has been clear in its attempt to defund Latino community resources and strip us of our political power. It's time to end the attacks against our community. The Trump administration must accept this ruling and allow the 2020 census to be implemented without the citizenship question."

Together We Count Colorado, an organization that seeks to ensure a complete population count in the 2020 Census, is preparing for the citizenship question to be included on the census form. "It's unresolved, and everybody expects it to go to the Supreme Court," said Rosemary Rodriguez of Together We Count.

The organization is planning to train community members on how to communicate the aims and impacts of the Census to others. "The primary thing is to provide education so that the household gets a Census form, and then they can make an informed decision. We want them to have the background and the education to make an informed choice," said Rodriguez.

"Obviously, it's better for the community if they fill out the form because of those funding issues, because of political representation, but it's got to be a personal decision that they make for their household."

Wage gains limited to top earners in Colorado

At a cursory glance, Colorado has much to celebrate: The state's economy has added 180,000 jobs since increasing the minimum wage from $8.31 to $9.30 in 2017; the annual unemployment rate fell to 2.8 percent in 2017 – well below the national rate of 4.4 percent and the 6th lowest rate in the county; and median household income rose to $69,100 in 2017 – up 3 percent from 2016. 

But scratching the surface of these encouraging numbers reveals troubling trends fraught with wage stagnation and disparities, according to the 2018 State of Working Colorado, published by Colorado Center on Law and Policy (CCLP). Among this year's findings: 

* Despite economic gains, wages remain relatively stagnant for most Colorado workers. While the unemployment rate has dropped every year since 2010, the median wage has been mostly flat over that same period with modest increases starting in 2015. Still, declining unemployment has not delivered the upward pressure on wages typically associated with a tight labor market. 

* While job growth has been strong in the state, an increasing share of this growth is occurring in low-wage sectors. The estimated share of jobs providing annual income less than what's necessary for a single adult to be self-sufficient has more than doubled between 2001 and 2017. Low-wage service sector employees – child care workers, home health care aides and food-service workers – are essential members of our communities. Yet, these jobs increasingly do not pay enough for many workers to make ends meet. 

* Wage gains are only experienced by top earners in the state. The wealthiest Coloradans have seen their wages grow much faster and more consistently compared to middle- and low-wage earners. Workers earning wages at the 90th percentile have seen their wages increase by 40 percent from 1979 to 2017. Meanwhile, workers in the 20th percentile only earn 11 percent more than the 1979 level after adjusting for inflation. 

* The basic cost of living for all families has increased by nearly 80 percent on average between 2001 and 2018. Child care and health care costs have doubled over this period, resulting in increasing pressure on family budgets. Since 2009, rent for one- and two-bedroom apartments increased by 33 percent, while the income for the median-renter household increased by only 2 percent. 

* Rural communities have the highest rates of financial insecurity in Colorado. In many rural counties in the state, the share of households living below self-sufficiency ranges from 30 to 41 percent. Our rural communities and remote mountain towns are struggling with a declining and aging population base, fewer good-paying jobs, and seasonal economies that often cannot sustain local workers. 

* Colorado's middle class is shrinking. The proportion of middle-income households has fallen over the last 40 years. Since 1980, the share of Coloradans who could be described as middle class has shrunk from 59 percent to 52 percent. 

* Colorado is increasingly a multiracial state with a persistent race-based economic divide.Rates of unemployment and underemployment among people of color are higher than Whites in Colorado. Meanwhile, the gap in income between families of color and White families is just as large as it was five decades ago. People of color also experience lower returns for education and higher rates of income inadequacy. 

"Despite our prospering economy, financial insecurity is a reality for too many Coloradans," said Claire Levy, Executive Director of CCLP. "We seek to build a Colorado where everyone – no matter what their age, background, race, gender or economic status – has the opportunity to live meaningful, fulfilling lives. Achieving that vision requires seriously reckoning with the data in the 2018 State of Working Colorado. With this year's legislative session in progress, we're hopeful that policymakers, opinion-leaders and those who care to improve these conditions use this data to enact policies that lead to a future in which all Coloradans share in the wealth and prosperity of this state. Together, we can shape a better Colorado that works for all of us."

CCLP produces the State of Working Colorado every year to gauge how the economy is performing for workers across the income spectrum. The publication is intended to help stakeholders and policymakers determine where to focus their efforts in revitalizing opportunities and prosperity for hard-working Coloradans along the racial spectrum. The full report is available at CCLP's website.

Polling shows strong support for Denver teachers as strike looms

Four of five Denver residents say they support Denver teachers in their contentious salary negotiations with Denver Public Schools, according to a new survey of about 600 randomly selected community members.

Live telephone interviews held Jan. 7-10 with 603 likely Denver voters show 79% of respondents agree that teacher pay in Denver falls short of what it ought to be. With the 'ProComp' compensation system set to expire this Friday (Jan. 18), 82% of voters say they would support teachers if the Denver Classroom Teacher Association and DPS cannot reach a new agreement this week. When asked about a possible strike, 62% are in favor of Denver teachers going on strike this month until they can reach agreement with the DPS Board over pay levels.

The parents of DPS students who took part in the survey demonstrated even stronger support for the teachers on these questions, shown in the following pie charts:

Additionally, 74% of respondents held a positive view of Denver teachers, whereas only 33% reported a positive view of the DPS Board. Nearly half of the respondents want the board to take a real change of direction.

DCTA has been negotiating with the district for more than a year to improve compensation and address Denver's teacher turnover crisis. Teachers are dissatisfied working under a salary system that restricts base pay in favor of awarding one-time incentives and bonuses that most district employees find very unreliable and unpredictable.

"Educators want to plan for their future, whether to start a family or buy a home. Denver teachers cannot make these decisions if they don't know how much salary they're making from year-to-year. Teachers become frustrated and many leave – this is why DPS has such an extremely high teacher turnover rate," said DCTA President Henry Roman. "Our students deserve the best teachers DPS can offer, and right now, the district is not doing enough to keep quality teachers in our classrooms."

The survey was conducted by Harstad Strategic Research, Inc., a national public opinion research firm based in Boulder. A random sample of 603 voters gives at least a 95% confidence level that any responses are within 4% (plus-or-minus) of the reported percentage.

"We need to keep our teachers in Denver. Our teachers deserve fair wages, and this poll shows the community wants the district to provide a competitive salary schedule that prioritizes keeping quality teachers in Denver," Roman observed. "We are committed to reaching a fair contract with DPS through the negotiation process this week, but should this matter go unresolved and result in a strike, Denver teachers are confident the community will support its teachers and will demand the district pay all educators a professional wage."