DPS school board votes to keep Kaiser health insurance for at least a year

February 20, 2026 - 08:06

In a move ensuring continuity for thousands of staff members, the Denver Public Schools (DPS) Board of Education has voted to retain Kaiser Permanente as a health insurance provider for district employees for at least another year. This decision follows a period of uncertainty after district administrators had initially recommended removing Kaiser from the list of available plans.

The board's vote guarantees that employees will continue to have Kaiser as an option during the upcoming open enrollment period. This provides stability for the many teachers, support staff, and administrators who currently rely on Kaiser's network of doctors and healthcare services. The one-year extension allows for further evaluation of long-term healthcare options without forcing an immediate disruption for enrolled staff and their families.

District officials acknowledged the need for a thorough review of healthcare costs and plan offerings to ensure fiscal responsibility. However, the board ultimately prioritized minimizing upheaval for employees in the near term. The decision underscores the challenge of balancing budgetary considerations with the well-being and preferences of the district's workforce, which is critical to student success. The board is expected to revisit the long-term contract and provider options in the coming months.