It was divide and conquer as Jeffco school board members spread out around Jefferson County to hear public comments on the the district's plan to cut the budget.

The Challenges and Choices forums gave the public a chance to comment or make suggestions on how to cut district costs.

The district budget will have to be reduced by $35 million over the next three years.

On Saturday, Jan. 10, board members met with audiences at four different county locations: Arvada West High School, Evergreen Public Library, Dakota Ridge High School and Arvada Public Library. A public meeting was also held on Monday, Jan. 12 at Evergreen Middle School.

Audience members had questions such as when they would know school specific decisions and if class sizes would increase. Citizens had suggestions that hit on everything from reducing energy and water use in school buildings to increasing school fees.

The board is expected to review all of the public input, along with district work-group reduction recommendations, and make final decisions in the spring.

If you missed any of the recent forums, another meeting is scheduled for Jan. 20 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Standley Lake High School.