Annual Colorado youth report shows improvements in mental health, early childhood education but more kids experiencing homelessness

The Colorado Children’s Campaign released the 2025 Kids Count data book, showcasing both progress and challenges for the state's youth. Improvements in youth mental health and early childhood education stand out, but the report reveals a concerning 28% rise in homeless students from 2023 to 2024. Vice President Maya Gould highlighted the importance of state-funded programs, noting a 60,000 increase in enrollees in the Child Health Plan Plus program. Despite positive trends in mental health, K-12 education scores remain lower than pre-pandemic levels, with 56% of third to eighth graders not meeting English expectations. The report calls for enhanced support for families facing financial instability, as rising costs contribute to the increase in child homelessness.

These findings reflect a complex landscape for Colorado's children, necessitating targeted policy responses.