The editorial board argued against Ascent Classical Academy (Feb. 2) by stating, “Durango parents and students already have choices.” Today, those choices are dictated by the school board without input from local families. When the state constitution was written, mentioning the need for local control, a dozen parents could band together and start an entire school district. Now, when hundreds of parents band together for this choice, our voices are ignored.
Choice is not defined by quantity. The Durango community doesn’t have a classical school – one of the highest performing models in the state – nor a K-12 school. We advocate for Ascent because we agree, “The classroom of one generation is the government of the next.” The editorial board correctly quoted an Ascent headmaster, but failed to accurately depict why Ascent requested to work with the state charter authorizer.
Ascent requested the 9-R board consider an early application in July 2021, followed by a second request in August. The first request was ignored and the second disregarded without public knowledge. Ascent’s request sought to provide ample time to open a robust school for 2023-24. In the past, early applications have been welcomed by 9-R, whose recent actions indicate a refusal to listen to the community and parents of more than 500 students.
Ascent has requested to work with the state, which has the experience, capacity and willingness to promote this effort and ensure our community has another strong education option for our children. Parents can learn about their program at www.ascentclassical.org.
Shelley Gundrey
Durango
