ASD Family News - October 2026

Archuleta School District is seeking parents and community members interested in serving on the District Accountability Committee (DAC). The DAC brings together parents and school representatives to provide recommendations to the Board of Education on district spending priorities, improvement plans, and charter schools. The committee also works to strengthen parent engagement and ensure diverse perspectives are represented in district decision-making.

The next DAC meeting will be Tuesday, December 1, at 5:30 p.m. in the Pagosa Springs Middle School library.

This year, the district is alternating monthly meetings between School Accountability Committees (SAC) and the DAC. SAC meetings will take place in November and January, with DAC meetings in December and February.

Interested in getting involved? Contact Amanda Schick at aschick@pagosa.k12.co.us to learn more about serving on the DAC. You can also share your input with the committee.

A group of San Juan Mountain School students participated in the Runway for Rise earlier this month. The participants were tasked with creating a piece of fashion, using nothing more than recycled products, objects found in nature, and one garment which was thrifted. The team contributed to the overall fundraising of over $110,000 to help support victims of domestic violence in Archuleta County.

One student stated "I had a blast meeting all the incredibly talented models and even more fun getting out of my shell!"

PSHS Spotlight: During the October 6 volleyball game, Pagosa Springs High School celebrated its Special Olympics team! Students were recognized between matches, joined in some volleyball action, and helped lead the crowd in school spirit. A special thank you to senior Dawson Iverson and junior Lister for helping organize this fun and inclusive event!

PSMS Spotlight: PSMS sixth graders recently spent two days and one night exploring Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve! Students climbed the tallest dune, learned about astronomy and local history, created sand art, and made lasting memories. Through adventure learning experiences like this, students step outside their comfort zones, build confidence and independence, strengthen relationships, and discover the excitement of learning beyond the classroom.

Please join us in congratulating School Resource Officer Brandon Bishop on his well-deserved promotion to detective with the Town of Pagosa Springs Police Department. Since joining ASD in April 2023, Officer Bishop has been a trusted partner in school safety and a positive presence in the lives of our students and staff. From building relationships with students and supporting the L.E.A.D. program to cheering on our Pirates at sporting events, he has made a lasting impact on our school community. Thank you, Officer Bishop, for your dedication and service! We'll miss seeing you in our schools, but you'll always be part of our Pirate family.

The Pagosa Springs Police Department will hire a new School Resource Officer to serve our schools.

“I would like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate these three amazing ladies for all they do to support our students at Pagosa Springs High School! They have been putting in extra time and going above and beyond to help students stay on track for graduation and prepare for their futures beyond high school. From meeting with students and helping them navigate graduation requirements to organizing important events like the College Fair this past week, their work makes a tremendous difference in the lives of our students. They are continually preparing and sharing information to keep students and families up to date on important opportunities, deadlines, and so much more. Their encouragement and guidance help students become proactive in planning for their futures and taking advantage of the opportunities available to them. There is so much work that happens behind the scenes, and we are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and dedication these three put into supporting our students. Their commitment helps ensure that our students have the information, resources, and support they need to reach their goals.”

Families often wonder when students should stay home from school. For many families, this decision can be even more difficult because of work responsibilities and lack of child care options. We understand it can be a hardship for both the student and the parent or guardian to miss school. It is important for your student's health, as well as the health of our entire school community, to stay home when there are signs your student may be contagious to others.

Destination Imagination is a dynamic program that teaches kids creative thinking and problem-solving skills through a collaborative teamwork process. The regional competition takes place in March, and teams can form anytime through January.

Student participation depends on having volunteer Team Managers, so please consider becoming a Team Manager! If you have questions, reach out to our Southwest Regional Director, Sarah Rogers! sarah@dicolorado.org or 970-481-2562.