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Colorado Open Records Request (CORA)

Purpose

This policy outlines the procedures for requesting and responding to public records requests under the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), C.R.S. § 24-72-201 et seq. The District is committed to transparency and accountability while ensuring compliance with all legal obligations under CORA.

Submitting a Request

  • Requests must be submitted in writing, and the sought records must be clearly described.

Response Time

  • As required by law, the district will respond to all CORA requests within three (3) working days of receipt.
  • Under CORA, the response time may be extended up to seven (7) working days if extenuating circumstances apply.

Access to Records

  • Records will be made available in the format they are maintained whenever possible.
  • The District may require in-person review of physical records during regular business hours at a designated District office.

Fees

  • In accordance with the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), Weld RE-5J School District may charge a fee to cover the actual costs of responding to public records requests. The first hour of staff time for research and retrieval is provided at no charge. After the first hour, a fee of $41.37 per hour will be assessed, reflecting the current state-approved maximum rate.
  • Copies:
    • Standard paper copies (up to 11" x 17"): $0.25 per page
    • Other formats (e.g., digital storage, oversized prints): Actual cost of materials
  • Postage: Actual cost of mailing materials, if applicable
  • Electronic records: Provided at no charge unless a substantial amount of staff time is required

Fees must be paid in advance of records being released. If estimated costs exceed $25, the District will provide a cost estimate before proceeding.

Exemptions

Certain records are exempt from disclosure under CORA, including but not limited to:

  • Student education records protected by FERPA
  • Personnel files
  • Legal correspondence protected by attorney-client privilege
  • Security plans or sensitive information

The District reserves the right to redact or withhold records as permitted by law.

Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated to reflect any changes in state law or District procedures.