In accordance with state law and district policy, the Board will appoint a qualified District D resident to serve through November 2027. The appointment process includes a public call for letters of interest, open interviews during a public Board meeting, and a final vote by the Board in open session.
Community members are encouraged to learn more about the timeline, eligibility requirements, and how to apply through the following FAQ. Updates will be posted on the district website and shared through district communication channels as they are available.
January is also national School Board Appreciation Month, a time to recognize the dedication and service of community members who volunteer their time to support public education.
Durango School District is grateful to its Board of Education members — past and present — who bring care, professionalism, and a deep commitment to students, staff, and families. Serving on the Board requires significant time, thoughtful decision-making, and a willingness to listen and collaborate. The district appreciates those in our community who step forward to serve in this important role.
District D Board Member Appointment FAQ
Why did Board Director Katie Stewart resign?
Katie Stewart shared her personal statement at the Dec. 8 Board of Education meeting. Her resignation became effective Dec. 31, 2025. Stewart was appointed in 2021 to fill a vacancy representing District D. She served on the Board for about four years.
How will the Board fill the current vacancy?
The process includes:
- Public announcement of the vacancy
- Opening a window for letters of interest from District D residents
- Interviews held during a public board meeting
- A public vote by the board to appoint the new member
What is the timeline for filling the vacancy?
- Jan. 13 – Board approves resolution to declare a board director vacancy
- Jan. 14 – Public notified of vacancy through district and community channels
- Jan. 14 to Feb. 20 at 5 p.m. – Letters accepted via email
- Feb. 6, 12-1 p.m. – Board Coffee Chat on Zoom for people to ask questions. Join the Zoom here.
- Feb. 24 at 5:30 p.m. – Interviews scheduled and open to the public
- March 14 – Candidates and public notified of outcome
How will the Board ensure a fair and transparent appointment process?
The Board will follow state law, DSD Board policies, and all open meetings requirements. This includes:
- Public notice of the vacancy
- Posting deadlines and instructions for letters of interest
- Noticing special Board meetings
- Conducting interviews in a public meeting
- Voting on the appointment in open public session
- Publishing the results promptly
Are Board candidate interviews conducted publicly?
Yes. The public is invited to attend candidate interviews in person or watch the board meeting livestream, but they are not allowed to ask or submit questions for candidates. Interviews will take place at the regular Board Meeting on Feb. 24 at the Impact Career Innovation Center.
What criteria will the Board use to select an appointee?
While there is no formal scoring rubric, the Board typically considers:
- Must have been a registered elector (registered to vote within the boundaries) of the Durango School District for 12 consecutive months
- The applicant must also be a resident of the director district in which the vacancy exists, District D
- Commitment to serving all students
- Understanding of governance roles
- Ability to collaborate, listen, and serve ethically
- Willingness to participate in Board training and abide by Coherent Governance practices
- Availability to serve through November 2027
- Must not have been convicted of a sexual offense against a child. C.R.S. 22-31-107(1).
- All school board elections and appointment processes are non-partisan.
- Current DSD staff are not eligible to run, but they may encourage other people who live in District D to apply for the role.
How long will the appointed member serve?
Until the next regular Board election in November 2027, when the seat will return to the ballot. The appointed member may choose to run for election at that time.
How can I find out if I live in District D?
DSD has a director district boundary map and an address lookup tool. Community members may also call the Superintendent’s Office for help verifying eligibility: (970) 259-5011.
How do I apply?
All interested residents are welcome to apply through the open call for letters of interest. Letters must be sent by 5 p.m. on Feb. 20 by email to [email protected]. The Board will use a consistent, fair process for all applicants. Applicants should submit a letter of interest addressing:
- Why they want to serve
- Relevant experience
- Confirmation they reside in District D
- Their commitment to DSD students and governance
- Proof of one year as a registered elector of the Durango School District
What happens if no one applies?
If the application window closes without enough eligible applicants, the Board may extend the deadline or conduct targeted outreach to ensure a diverse pool of interested District D residents.
How will I stay updated throughout the process?
DSD will provide updates through:
- The district website: 2026 Board Appointment page
- BoardDocs meeting agendas
- Press releases
- Social media posts
- Newsletter updates to staff and families
- Dedicated webpage with all materials related to the vacancy and appointment timeline
- Questions may be emailed to [email protected].