Because STAR data isn’t publicly available on a state website, we’re sharing screenshots and summaries from our internal reports to provide clarity and transparency for our community. These insights reflect how Durango students are performing — and how we’re continually working to improve.
1. There’s always room to grow, and we’re committed to it.
Our schools are constantly improving how we support student learning and measure success. That includes updating benchmarks, using data-driven teaching practices, and making space for every learner to thrive.
2. Most students in grades 6-12 are meeting or exceeding expectations.
According to our Spring 2025 STAR assessments, 70.8% of secondary students are proficient in reading and 67% are proficient in math — both well above state and national averages.
3. We raised the bar on purpose.
Durango School District uses higher benchmarks than national norms. This means fewer students may show as “proficient,” but those who do are meeting a more rigorous standard.
4. High school scores are clearly on the rise.
Looking at longitudinal STAR data, students in 9th-11th grades have shown steady, multi-year gains in both reading and math. Example: for students in 10th grade reading, proficiency jumped for this group of students from 42% in 2023 to 72% in 2025.
5. Middle school students are also gaining ground.
Across grades 6-8, we’ve seen clear upward trends in reading scores. For instance, reading proficiency rose from 47% to 65% in just two years for the same set of students.
6. Assessment gaps reflect national challenges and opportunities.
While achievement gaps exist between demographic groups, some groups in Durango are outperforming national averages. For example, Black students are scoring above 70% in reading, and Asian students top both math and reading charts at over 75% proficiency.
7. We use STAR to identify needs early and respond fast.
STAR assessments help teachers tailor instruction by identifying which students need additional support, and which are ready to stretch their learning further.
8. Growth takes time, and we’re seeing it.
Some grade levels have seen dramatic drops in students needing intervention. Example: In 8th grade math, the percentage of students needing urgent intervention dropped from 14% to 6% in just two years.
9. Teachers and leaders collaborate weekly on data.
Every middle and high school uses STAR data in real-time to improve instruction — adjusting supports, personalizing lessons, and setting team goals around student growth.
10. Public schools thrive with public support.
Thank you for staying engaged, asking questions, and cheering on your local schools. We welcome parent and community involvement — and we always want to hear from you at [email protected].