I’m a longtime La Plata County resident, living no more than five miles from Purgatory Resort since I was 15. At 15, I was transported by bus to Durango High School five days a week, with the farthest north bus stop being the entrance to Purgatory.

After my husband and I bought our house and had kids, I didn’t think school transportation would be a worry considering my past experiences, then COVID-19 happened. During the pandemic school year, the district assigned the farthest north stop to be Pinkerton Hot Springs, a one-mile drive to get my kids within five miles of their school.

After many phone calls and emails, the farthest stop was altered to Haviland Lake, at least they were meeting me half-way. Every year since has been an issue, but this year is especially trying. Two weeks ago, the district sent an email stating the bus route changes, a full weekend before they were set to take place. The changes? No more transportation beyond Hermosa Hills (afternoon only).

Yesterday, I received a similar email saying the same would happen for the morning bus. Come to find out, every stop in Hermosa is still on the route. The parents/kids closest to school can still get transportation. No one has set up a central pick-up/drop-off for the children south of Hermosa Hills. I’m now expected to drive 60 miles per school day for my kids to have an education.

Anna Westlund

Durango