A chance to “provide the best academic success and proficiency outcome to our schools, students and staff” (Durango School District 9-R board resolution on diversity, equity and inclusion, adopted January 2021).
This chance comes in the form of a charter school called Ascent, a school that offers a back-to-basics traditional curriculum ... and there are over 462 families in our community that want this opportunity.
Why another charter school? Taking a look at Building a Better Colorado K-12 Education Whitepaper (September 2021), the Colorado Department of Education reports the following: “In Colorado, charter schools when looked at six-year graduation rates, charter schools have closed the gap between white students and Hispanic students.” Thus far, the 9-R school district, despite past efforts “continues to have significant opportunity gaps as evidenced by disproportionate rates of discipline, drop out and achievement among various sub-populations.” (board resolution).
You have an opportunity to help close the opportunity gap. Allow Ascent (rated as one of the top 10 in rankings of charter schools) to authorize directly through the state chartering authority. Then, Ascent Academy can immediately start to bring to fruition a much-needed educational opportunity for our diverse community of children.
We are counting on you 9-R.
Donna Gulec
Durango
