Empowering Youth in Pueblo: Transforming Schools into Community Learning Centers

In Pueblo, Colorado, a transformative initiative is emerging just when it's needed the most. With a poverty rate between 20-25% and a concerning rise in gun violence, the community stands at a critical juncture. The statistics paint a troubling picture: 11 homicides were reported in 2024 alone, many involving firearms. As schools close and youth disengagement rises, innovative solutions become essential. Enter the Pueblo Learning Centers, a pilot program aimed at turning closed or underused schools into vibrant, community-driven hubs for youth aged 3-18.

Inspired by Finland's successful education model, this initiative emphasizes universal access, personalized support, and civic responsibility. By combining academic support with gun safety and hunter education, these centers strive to redirect at-risk youth, especially young men, from the streets toward productive roles in society.

The Need for Change

Pueblo's educational system has suffered due to policies like No Child Left Behind and the Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP), which often pushed struggling students through without ensuring they truly mastered the material. Many students find themselves in a state of "limbo," leading to widening gaps in educational inequality. Currently, dropout rates sit at approximately 5% in Pueblo, significantly higher than the statewide average of 2%. This stark difference highlights the urgent need for a new approach to education.

The Pueblo Learning Centers aim to enhance safety, self-reliance, and equity, with the goal of reducing both gun violence and poverty. Graduates of these programs could see an increase of about $10,000 in their annual earnings, paving the way for a brighter future. This program will also respect Second Amendment rights by promoting ethical hunting practices, which will help foster responsibility and community engagement.

Program Overview

The Pueblo Learning Centers will repurpose closed facilities into unique learning environments that offer play-based early education for children aged 3-10 and after-school programs for older students. These centers will be safe spaces, allowing youth to participate in academic support, gun safety courses, and responsible hunting education.

Focusing on individual needs, these centers will ensure no child is left behind. The curriculum will tackle academic challenges while also teaching values of civic responsibility and community involvement. For example, a student struggling with math might receive targeted tutoring while also engaging in programs that emphasize teamwork and leadership.

Funding and Sustainability

To realize this vision, Pueblo Learning Centers will utilize House Bill 24-1448 (HB 24-1448), a new school finance law effective in FY 2025-26. This bill allocates additional funding for high-need districts such as Pueblo, enhancing base funding, as well as support for English learners and students at risk.

The initial budget for one center is around $500,000 per year, aiming to serve up to 100 students. This investment lays the groundwork for a sustainable model, one that can be replicated across the county and will ultimately serve the entire community.

Community Engagement

Community involvement is crucial for the success of the Pueblo Learning Centers. Local residents, educators, and stakeholders will help shape the programs offered, ensuring they reflect community needs. By building a sense of ownership and collaboration, these centers are positioned to become essential parts of the community.

Workshops, events, and volunteer opportunities will encourage families to participate with the centers, creating a nurturing support network for students. This comprehensive approach will not only improve the educational experience but also strengthen community ties.

The Role of Hunting Education

Integrating hunting education into the curriculum serves an important purpose. Teaching responsible hunting practices helps instill discipline, respect for nature, and safety awareness among the youth.

Participants will explore wildlife conservation, ethical hunting, and sustainable practices. This education empowers young people to become stewards of their environment and develops skills that open doors to potential careers in law enforcement, wildlife management, and outdoor education.

A Vision for the Future

The Pueblo Learning Centers stand as a significant step toward addressing local community challenges. By converting closed schools into active learning environments, the program aspires to provide a safe haven for youth, promoting both academic success and personal growth.

As the pilot program rolls out, it can serve as a blueprint for other communities facing similar challenges. The focus on safety, self-reliance, and equity can inspire a national movement dedicated to rethinking education and community support.

A New Chapter for Pueblo's Youth

The Pueblo Learning Centers are not only a response to issues like poverty and gun violence; they represent a beacon of hope for the youth of Pueblo. By transforming closed schools into community-driven hubs, this initiative aims to equip the next generation with the skills and values necessary to succeed.

Looking ahead, the potential impact of this program is enormous. With strong community support and involvement, the Pueblo Learning Centers can change lives, help reduce violence, and foster belonging among youth. Together, we can build a safer, more equitable Pueblo for everyone.

link to proposed policies brief: https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vRvgHwkg9sYkHSJvkR1jpG1bE3UnFAP2jYuVdwjnxsRCbkLoy8RSPFLJZ38Z1bst1hve98wMhYI1btG/pub

A repurposed school building serving as a community learning center