Letter from Mr. deKay

The school year is halfway complete and there have been many successes recently.  We want to acknowledge the athletes who completed their recent winter sports seasons.  The High School wrestling team sent four athletes to the State competition.  There were two boys and two girls who competed very well against the State's best.  Both boys and girls basketball also represented the community well at the regional basketball tournament this past weekend.  The teams fought hard against 3A competition as their seasons came to a close.   The middle school girls were league champions in girls basketball. They were undefeated against much larger schools.  We are proud of all of our athletes and coaches who showed commitment and dedication in their respective winter sports.  The lessons that they are learning will stay with them for a lifetime.

Academically, Ignacio sent 30 middle school students and ten high school students to the regional science fair competition.  Many were awarded ribbons and awards for their hard work.  There will be two middle school and three high school students representing Ignacio at the State competition in April.  Congratulations to all students and sponsors....we are proud of your efforts!

The four day school week received a lot of positive support in a recent survey of students, staff parents, guardians, and community members.  Almost 85% of respondents are still in favor of the four day school week.  Attendance and academic growth were reported to be improving compared with last year by respondents.  Fridays were cited as important for family time and to catch up on school work.  We will have the school calendar for next year available shortly

There is an important Strategic Plan informational meeting on March 13th at 5:30 PM at the High School.  A light meal will be provided.  Please come to the meeting to learn about the progress the school district has made on the Strategic Plan.  We have worked hard to stay true to the mission statement "Together we will engage, empower, and prepare all of our learners for the future".

Universal Preschool has moved into Colorado.  The State will fund all four year olds to attend preschool for up to 15 hours per week.  Children with qualifying factors will receive 30 hours per week.  The Ignacio School District will partner with Ignacio Early Learning Program and SOCOCCA to provide educational services for our children.  Please get signed up as soon as possible atUPK.Colorado.gov. There is a lot of research to show that the continuity of care will have far reaching positive effects for youth who are exposed to early education.

The winter has been a tough one and very unpredictable.  While we always appreciate the moisture, the school has had to negotiate snow days and then had to schedule make-up days to ensure that we meet both district and state requirements for contact hours for students.  With the four day week, we committed to making up instructional time on Fridays as opposed to scheduling snow days in the calendar as we have done in the past.  Having to make up three snow days proved challenging and required flexibility by families and staff.  Next year, we will identify specific Fridays for make-up to ensure that everyone has plenty of advance notice.  I appreciate your patience and flexibility while we work through our first year of the four day school week.  Spring Break is fast approaching and we are looking forward to some sunny days and warmer temperatures.

As always, I am honored to serve in this school district and in our community.  Our staff will continue to work hard to improve and to make a positive impact on our youth.  Thank you for your continued support.