The League is organized by Digital Promise, a global nonprofit working to expand opportunity for every learner by bridging solutions across research, practice, and technology.
Durango was selected from a competitive national pool of applicants based on its educational leadership, demonstrated commitment to excellence, innovative vision for learning, key achievements, and collaborative spirit. Only one other district in Colorado – Adams 12 in the Denver area – was selected for The League.
Superintendent Dr. Karen Cheser said this milestone highlights the district’s forward momentum.
“We are deeply honored to have been selected to join the League of Innovative Schools, which represents our commitment to transforming education for the 21st century. By joining this prestigious network of forward-thinking districts, Durango schools will gain access to cutting-edge research, collaborative partnerships, and proven innovative practices that will empower our educators to create personalized, engaging learning experiences for every student.”
Building on strengths
Durango School District applied to the League to expand its opportunities for innovation while building on existing strengths. The district is recognized for its Portrait of a Graduate competencies, career-connected learning pathways, project-based learning, sustainability initiatives, and global education programs.
“The League perfectly aligns with and supports our existing strengths – from our Portrait of a Graduate competencies and career-connected learning initiatives to our robust project-based learning approach, sustainability and global education programs, and our commitment to green-lighting our teachers’ innovative ideas,” Cheser said.
Preparing students for the future
League membership offers DSD unique professional learning and collaboration opportunities, including:
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Cutting-edge technology and innovations
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Pilot programs for new learning and teaching models that benefit educators and students
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Year-round collaboratives, working groups, implementation cohorts, and leadership-building events
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Regional events, industry conferences, and bi-annual convenings that feature school visits and deep-dive sessions
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Networking with other forward-thinking education leaders around key challenges and solutions
“In a rapidly changing world, our students deserve an education that prepares them not just for the jobs of today, but for challenges and opportunities we can’t yet imagine,” Cheser said. “The League provides the framework and support we need to build upon our current innovations while moving beyond traditional teaching methods to embrace new possibilities that put student success at the center of everything we do.”