Community FAQ: Investing in Our Schools Bond » Community FAQ: Investing in Our Schools Bond

Community FAQ: Investing in Our Schools Bond

What is the 2024 Investing in Our Schools Bond?

In November 2024, voters in La Plata County approved Ballot Issue 4A, authorizing Durango School District 9-R (DSD) to issue a $150 million bond. The bond is being used to repair, upgrade, and improve schools across the district – with a focus on safety, sustainability, 21st-century learning, and supporting staff and students.

 

What types of projects will the bond fund?

The bond supports projects in several key areas:

  • Deferred maintenance: Replacing aging infrastructure like boilers, roofs, plumbing, and electrical systems

  • New construction: A brand-new elementary school in Three Springs to replace Florida Mesa Elementary School

  • Sustainability: Water-saving plumbing

  • Furniture and equipment: Updating outdated classroom furniture and instructional tools

  • Workforce housing: Exploring affordable housing options to help retain teachers and staff

  • Eliminate leased facilities: Finding options for land/property ownership vs. rental spaces for custodial, facilities and technology departments 

  • School planning: Developing a long-term school replacement and modernization strategy

  • Renovate Escalante Middle School: Renovations to include learning space upgrades to create a more conducive learning environment such as more natural lighting, updates to flooring/paint and more
  • Conversion of the Florida Mesa Campus: Determine use for and plan conversion of Florida Mesa campus once the new Three Springs Elementary school is opened


Can the bond be used to increase staff salaries?

No. School bonds can only fund buildings and equipment. Colorado law prohibits using bond money for ongoing operational expenses like payroll. 

How is the district making sure bond funds are spent responsibly?

Two major community groups are involved:

Citizen Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC): The CBOC is a group of local volunteers who serve as the “eyes and ears” of the community. They meet monthly to:
  • Monitor bond spending
  • Ensure spending aligns with ballot language
  • Review budgets and timelines
  • Promote transparency

Long Range Planning Committee (LRPC): This committee helped shape the bond priorities and is now focusing on future planning. Their work includes:
  • Creating a long-term school replacement plan
  • Planning how to repurpose the Florida Mesa Elementary campus after the new school opens
  • Evaluating future facility needs based on district growth


Who was selected to design the new Three Springs Elementary School?

After a competitive interview process, RTA Architects was chosen to design the new Three Springs Elementary School. A Design Advisory Group has already begun work to ensure the new school reflects community values, modern learning needs, and environmental sustainability.

What’s the timeline for building Three Springs elementary school?

The project will unfold over several years:

  • Design Phase: Spring 2025–Spring 2026
  • Construction Begins: Summer 2026
  • School Completed: Winter 2027/28
  • Final Prep and Move-In: Spring–Summer 2028
  • Opening: Fall 2028


What other planning is underway as of mid-April, 2025?

  • Master Construction Schedule: A district-wide construction schedule is being developed to ensure:
    • Summer school programs aren’t disrupted
    • Contractors can meet deadlines without being overloaded
    • Projects are sequenced for efficiency
  • Bid Packaging and RFPs: The district is creating bid packages for all major projects. These packages will guide contractors, ensure fair selection, and provide a clear scope of work.

 

What is happening with the district’s workforce housing initiative?

As of Aug. 24, 2025, Durango School District is moving forward with its workforce housing initiative by purchasing the 35-unit Lightner Creek Apartments for $10 million, funded through the 2024 bond. The property—studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms, plus garages and storage—will provide affordable rental options for staff beginning in 2026. An advisory group of educators will help set rental rates and eligibility, with the goal of easing housing pressures, supporting retention, and ensuring employees can live in the community they serve.

 

How much funding is allocated to each area of the bond?

The current draft allocations include:

  • $60 million – Three Springs Elementary
  • $37.4 million – Deferred maintenance
  • $20 million – Workforce housing
  • $9 million – Furniture and equipment
  • $4 million – Renovate The Hub/Big Picture High School
  • $3 million – Renovate Escalante Middle School
  • $3 million – Reduce leased space
  • $2 million – Repurpose Florida Mesa Elementary
  • $600,000 – Sustainability (low-flow water systems)
  • $11 million – Contingency, management, and fees


How can the public stay informed?

DSD provides regular updates through:

 

How can I submit a question about the Bond for this FAQ?

We welcome your feedback and new questions about the bond. Email your question to [email protected].