Here at Ignacio High School, we have students, and quite possibly some adults, counting down the days. For some, the countdown means the end of their high school careers and for others, it may be the completion of their first year in high school. It is a sentimental time of year regardless of class or age. 

We just finished an incredibly busy week with the Bobcat Expo where our students were able to share their incredible talents. The drama presentation of “The 33 Pigs,” guided by Ms. LaQueta Farrow earned high accolades from the audience. “It was the funniest play we have ever had,” remarked one high school student. One parent commented that “not only was it funny but you had to pay attention to get the, sometimes, subtle references.” Drama presentations are always a joy to watch. Students who are often shy and reserved stand up on the stage and belt out their lines with no hesitation. We were rewarded with a middle and high school combined concert led by Mr. Chris Moraga. The growth in both talent and skill was very evident. The band did a tremendous job and ended with a stellar performance of “Pomp and Circumstances.” Students from Mrs. Turner’s Woodshop classes, Ms. Anita Mayes’ Art Classes, Ms. Gruber’s Fashion and Design classes, Mr. Cody Haga’s welding class, and Mrs. Klinger’s Agricultural classes displayed a variety of amazing work. 

Soaring metal eagles, soft fuzzy animal toys, delicate acrylic paintings, and intricate woodworking projects were in abundance. We truly have amazing students and teachers. 

As we end the year it is always nice to reflect on our successes and struggles throughout this school year. The school district contracted Annette Brinkman as a consultant. Annette has worked with the Administrative Team as well as our teachers helping them focus on some specific teaching skills and improving the art of teaching. We moved to a four-day week and a six-period day this year as well. The majority of the staff and students in the high school like the new schedule. We will keep the same schedule next year and make only minor changes primarily with our Cat’s class at the end of the day. 

Graduation is coming up quickly. This year’s graduation will be celebrated in the Ignacio High School gym at 10 a.m. on May 27. Seniors who have worked hard to meet the rigorous expectations to earn a diploma will be able to participate in the ceremony. Those requirements include passing the classes needed to earn the required number of credits. The state of Colorado also requires any student receiving a Colorado high school diploma to earn qualifying scores on a state-approved standardized test such as ACT, SAT, SAT Keys, AP course completion in Math or English, and a variety of other options. Students must also complete 20 hours of documented community service hours. In the coming years, graduation requirements will also include choosing either a college career path or completing a required number of Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses. The state of Colorado and Ignacio High School would like to have our seniors not only walk across the stage with diplomas but also with certifications and licensing for future careers. Our college track students will also have the ability to enter post-secondary schools with several college credits on their transcripts. 

Thank you to the community of Ignacio for your continued support of the Ignacio School District. I encourage you to participate in the education of our youth. We have many committee and volunteer opportunities open to parents and community members. Please feel free to reach out to individual schools should you have questions or concerns. 

It has been a great year and we look forward to the next. Have a great summer!