We All Belong - DEIB Update

Our plan aims to ensure students will graduate prepared for success in their choice of career and/or post-secondary education, be able to compete in and contribute to the global community, and be motivated to continue the pursuit of knowledge throughout their lives.

Tommie Lewis, a DEIB consultant, with over 30 years of experience, facilitates coalition meetings alongside Vanessa Giddings, Executive Director of Student Support Services.  The coalition monitors the DEIB strategic plan through data analysis and provides ongoing feedback regarding areas of celebration and areas of improvement in the following areas:

  1. Increase cultural awareness of students and staff as well as a deeper understanding of diversity and inclusion.
  2. Implement a unified multi-tiered system of support.
  3. Increase student, family, and community engagement. 

If you know someone who would be interested in joining the Inclusive Excellence Guiding Coalition, please have them contact Vanessa Giddings at (970) 247-5411 or  [email protected]

Spanish Language College Information Night

One of the first DEIB events of this school year was held on September 19, when Durango High School (DHS) hosted a Spanish Language College Information Night to help families understand college opportunities and processes. This student/family event, in collaboration with Ft. Lewis College and TRIO - a Federal outreach and student services program, presented timely information about: ELL program overview, GPAs, steps to prepare for college, Trio program overview, college application process, scholarships and financial aid overview. 

Upcoming DEIB Events

  • Sept. 25, 2-6 p.m. at Rotary Park: The Community Language Resource Group is hosting a Community Language Celebration with free food, music and dancing. The district's English Language Development Specialist Kira Cunningham will speak at this event.

  • Sept. 28, 5:15-9 p.m. at DHS Cafeteria: Title VI Event: Potluck and Concert with Gabriel Ayala DHS Cafeteria

  • Oct. 8 at DHS homecoming – A Native American drum group will perform at the football game

  • Oct. 10, 8 a.m. at Park Elementary School – "Honoring Indigenous Ingredients" event in Native American Crew

  • Oct. 11 – Each school will be celebrating Indigenous People's Day

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