We read with interest the recent announcement from Durango School District regarding its rebranding and efforts to “reduce confusion” about which schools fall under its oversight (Herald, July 18). While clarity is certainly important, we are concerned that the district’s messaging about charter schools like Mountain Middle School and Animas High School may unintentionally mislead the public and undermine the vital role these schools play in our community.
Yes, charter schools operate independently of the district, with their own boards and curricular models – but they are still public schools. They are tuition-free, open to all and funded with public dollars. It’s also important to clarify that charter schools in Colorado are held to rigorous accountability standards and they must meet the same state academic benchmarks as district-run schools and undergo regular performance reviews by their authorizers.
Durango School District suggesting that charter schools may not meet public standards or serve the public interest because they are not under district oversight is not only misleading – it is unfair to the students and families who attend these schools.
As a progressive educational community, we have championed the mantra “One community – one goal,” doing our best to serve all students in Durango. For example, Durango School District, Mountain Middle School and Animas High School worked diligently together to pass the state’s first joint mill levy in 2016, first joint bond issue in 2020, and one of the first joint busing agreements in 2014. We celebrate these historic, student-centered, collaborative efforts which have benefited all of Durango’s students.
Despite what some may assume after reading the article in The Durango Herald, there is no application essay, interview or selective admissions process at Mountain Middle School or Animas High School. These schools are open to all students, and when more students apply than there are seats available, a lottery system – not a screening process – determines enrollment. This ensures fairness and broad access, particularly for families seeking an educational environment that best fits their child’s needs. In fact, that these schools use a lottery system to manage enrollment simply reflects the demand for their academic programs – not a failure to serve.
Mountain Middle School and Animas High School are not “outside” the public system; we are an essential part of it, offering families meaningful choice. Throughout students’ years in K-12 education, our charters and the district share students who often come from and return to the district. Mountain Middle School and Animas High School continue to work closely with Durango School District schools to ensure smooth transitions for all. Our community is fortunate to have these additional opportunities that allow families to choose the best option for their students’ continued growth and development.
Public education in Colorado includes both district-run and charter public schools. Rather than drawing lines that divide, we hope we can recognize all public schools that serve students and families in our community with commitment, transparency and care.
Maren Bicknell, Michelle Bonanno, Greg Phillips, Julie Kremer, Martha Minot, Lily Oswald
Animas High School Board of Directors
Lorien Chambers Schuldt, Justin Thornbladh, John Arms, Daniel (DJ) Jergensen
Mountain Middle School Board of Directors
