While conditions have improved enough to safely reopen the school, we recognize that some families and staff may still be affected by road closures, property damage, displacement, or other challenges related to the flooding.
Your safety comes first. If you are unable to safely travel to school or are dealing with urgent circumstances related to the flooding, please prioritize your family's safety and well-being. We understand that recovery will take time and that not everyone will be able to return to their normal routines right away. Families are encouraged to communicate with the school about their circumstances when they are able.
As we welcome students back, our focus will be on providing a caring, supportive environment and helping children return to familiar routines. We know that recent events may have been stressful for students and families, and our staff will be ready to offer reassurance, connection, and support as our school community recovers together.
Bus transportation updates
Flooding continues to affect roads in the county, and this impacts our bus transportation:
- JC Bus Route- Junction Creek Road: County officials informed us shortly after 2 p.m. Nov. 4 that Junction Creek Road past the 1200 block was closed to one lane, and our JC Route bus could not drive on the road due to weight restrictions. We do not know how this will affect Thursday morning routes. Families who live along Junction Creek Road should plan to drop off and pick up their child at school tomorrow, Nov. 5. We will keep you informed as we learn about changing road conditions.
- AV Bus Route- Animas Valley: The AV-AM bus route will run tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 5, serving all bus riders. Due to road conditions, we will not be able to stop along the 550 corridor north of PJ's Market (67 Trimble Lane). If your stop is along this corridor north of the market, you may pick up the bus in the PJ's Market parking lot. The bus will arrive there at 7 a.m.
- All other routes: Bus routes serving other district schools are expected to operate, but families should anticipate possible delays due to changing road conditions, unexpected lane closures, and ongoing flood recovery efforts. Please allow extra time and use caution when traveling.
We recognize that changing school schedules and transportation arrangements can be challenging for families and staff. Conditions continue to evolve, and we will communicate additional changes as decisions are made.
For the latest information about evacuations, road closures, and emergency resources, please visit La Plata County's official flood information page.
Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and understanding as we work to safely reopen our schools and bus routes.
– Durango School District Leadership