Greetings from the Ignacio School District,
The Ignacio School District staff is committed to making this year one of high engagement and academic growth. We are in year five of our District’s Strategic Plan which was developed in collaboration with parents, staff, and community stakeholders. The plan utilizes SMART goals in each of four focus areas which include Academic Achievement, Climate and Culture, Staff Retention and Development, and Facilities. Our mission remains steadfast: “Together, We will Engage, Empower, and Prepare all of our Learners for the Future.”
School begins on Monday, Aug. 10, with a transition day for students who are new to each building and new to the district. On that day, pre-school, kindergarten, 6th grade, 9th grade, and all brand-new students will be required to attend school at their buildings. This allows for a smoother transition and an easier time to get to know both peers and staff. Also, on the evening of Monday, Aug. 10, will be an open house from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. for all parents and students to visit their prospective schools. School will start for all grades on Tuesday, Aug. 11. Both days have a normal start and release.
We request support in two critical areas this year from parents and guardians. One area of concern is attendance, and the other is personal electronic devices. The district goal for attendance is 93% for each student. Please continue to have your children at school on time and ready to learn. I am pleased to report that our chronic absenteeism rate was reduced by 7% this past year, and we hope to continue that trend. Reach out to your building leadership if you need support getting your children to school.
Cell phones and other personal technology devices continue to be a source of distraction for students in the classroom and around the schools. Many school districts in the area and across the state have tightened up their cell phone and electronic device policies in response to House Bill 25-1135. The Ignacio School District will increase its expectations around electronic devices, especially cell phones, earbuds, and smartwatches. The Ignacio Early Learning Program, Elementary School, and Middle School do not allow electronic devices to be out during the school day starting as soon as the students enter the building. The High School will require electronic devices to be put away in educational settings and at specific times. These expectations will be reflected in the student handbooks for each school. We understand that the attendance and electronic device policies and expectations need to be supported by both families and school staff to be effective.
Our focus for the coming school year is to continue to improve student engagement in the classroom and obtain high academic growth for each student. The district will utilize improved professional development, effective professional learning communities (PLCs), and data-driven decision making to ensure success. We are fortunate to have such an incredibly talented and dedicated staff who have already done much of the groundwork in these areas. I am also grateful to families who continue to believe in our schools and community. Ignacio is an amazing place to live and work.
We look forward to an excellent school year. We are committed to making a positive impact on every child who walks through our doors. Together, we will engage, empower, and prepare all of our learners for the future.