As we come into the holiday season, it is important to reflect on all that we as a community have to be thankful. I’ve never lived in a place that has so much to offer its citizens, as well as one that possesses such a warm and welcoming feel as Durango and the surrounding area. During this time of the year, we often find ourselves in a festive mood, excited about the opportunities we have to enjoy family and friends. Many will be able to take time off from work and enjoy some rest and relaxation. What we often forget are the challenges many of our families face, not only during the holiday time, but throughout the year.
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Over the last couple of months, I’ve addressed the issue of communication and our need to discuss issues that can help improve our schools and the experience for our children. Another critical skill or trait I’d like to address is one that seems to be on the decline in our society, that of perseverance.
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Dear Families,
You student’s new school ID was recently issued for the 2017-18 school year. Student IDs serve a multitude of purposes within the district, including bus access and school library use. Student IDs issued this year are valid through the entire school year, as well as through the beginning of the 2018/19 school year until new photos and IDs are issued.
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Dear Parents,

I want to alert you to a challenge we are facing in Durango. Currently, we have numerous positions open for Kids’ Camp, our after-school childcare program in Durango, and have been unable to secure applicants to fill these roles. The same challenge is being experienced by other providers in the area. Although we have attended a number of job fairs and continue to seek interested students who are at our local colleges in an effort to fully staff our program, the crisis continues.
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Another school year is upon us, and families are preparing to send their children back to school. Our traditional public schools, our charter schools, and our private schools are excited to see our children back in classrooms next week. While our teachers, support staff, and administrators are ready, I hope parents recognize the important role they play in the educational process.
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Since 2012, we’ve been working on clearly defining what the targeted learning outcomes are for students across our district in all subjects. This effort is to guarantee that all students, regardless of what school they attend, can gain common skills and knowledge to be prepared for whatever pathway they choose when they finish high school. The work is complex, as changing a system takes time. Durango has a long history of outstanding service to children, and this shift ensures that we continue to employ innovative and relevant educational services for all students across our district.
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We wanted to inform our families about a community meeting that will be held tonight regarding the Lightner Creek Fire. The county emergency manager and members from the Type II Emergency Management Team will provide updates on the fire, evacuation and pre-evacuation notices and address community concerns around the fire. The meeting will begin at 5:00 pm at Escalante Middle School, located at 141 Baker Lane, Durango, CO 81301.
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Durango 9-R's sponsorship program helps local businesses and organizations reach the 9-R community and puts money back in our classrooms. Not only does your sponsorship free up dollars that can go back to support technology in schools, good nutrition programs in the kitchens and innovative programming for students, but it is also an opportunity to showcase your business, and its services, as being a key supporter of public education in Durango.
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Thanks to those who attended the Budget Meeting to hear the district's plan and provide input and ask questions.
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On Monday, August 21, 2017, our district will be in the path of a near total solar eclipse. This event is being called “The Great American Eclipse” because it is the first time since 1918 a solar eclipse will be visible on a path across the entire continental United States.
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