The majority of Archuleta County students will be returning to their classroom’s next week, with the first day of school for Archuleta School District students set for Tuesday, Sept. 3.
Some students have already gone back to class, with the district’s charter school, Pagosa Peak Open School, returning on Aug. 15.
The Pagosa Springs high school, middle school, elementary school and the San Juan Mountain School will begin their school years on Sept. 3.
District principals and teachers have already returned to their offices and classrooms to start preparing for the year.
“As we kick off the elementary school year, we’re thrilled to welcome back our students and introduce new families to our vibrant school community,” Pagosa Springs Elementary School Principal Kelly Vining wrote in an email to The SUN. “This year promises to be filled with exciting learning opportunities, new friendships, and memorable experiences. Our dedicated teachers are ready to guide and support each child on their educational journey. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead, brimming with growth and enthusiasm. Welcome back, everyone!”
San Juan Mountain School principal Stewart Bellina states in an email to The SUN, “San Juan Mountain School is gearing up for its fifth year, and we are looking forward to kicking things off on Tuesday with our new student body. We start every year with 2 weeks of building culture and supporting students as they develop our norms and learn the procedures and goals of our school.”
Pagosa Springs Middle School Principal Chris Hinger and Pagosa Springs High School principal Sean O’Donnell were not available for comment by press time on Wednesday.
At a retreat on Aug. 27, district staff and the school board discussed common values shared amongst its members, with the main one being how to find ways to give every kid the best chance to succeed in the district’s schools.
Superintendent Rick Holt mentioned that “right now we operate on a system that is highly effective for some of our students, and is yet to be effective for too many of our students.”
Holt also commented on the diversity amongst the board, saying he “could not think of a more balanced board of really practical experiences that can help craft a great way forward.”
He added that each member has a unique background and offers a different world view.
“We’re very fortunate as an organization to have that going for us,” he said.
Holt also mentioned the board has a collective responsibility to respond to the desires of the community, rather than developing a plan on its own and not taking in community feedback.
clayton@pagosasun.com
