As students return to school this year, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation in the Alamosa School District (ASD). This academic year promises to be one of the most promising yet, marked by significant achievements and improvements that underscore our commitment to excellence in education. From notable academic gains to enhanced facilities, Alamosa is starting the school year on a high note, setting the stage for continued success and growth.
First and foremost, the academic achievements of our students deserve a round of applause. The recent results from the Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS) assessments have shown remarkable progress. This year’s scores reflect the hard work and dedication of both students and educators, demonstrating a clear upward trend in academic performance across various subjects.
CMAS scores are not just numbers; they represent the cumulative effort of our students, teachers, support staff, and families. The improved results are a testament to the effective teaching strategies implemented and the relentless pursuit of academic excellence within our schools. Our students are rising to the challenge, gaining the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive world.
In addition to CMAS results, our district has also seen impressive outcomes in Advanced Placement (AP) tests. The increase in AP exam scores is a clear indicator of our students’ readiness to tackle college-level coursework. These achievements highlight the growing academic prowess within our district and the effectiveness of our rigorous curriculum and dedicated teachers. We will release our district and school-level reports the first week of September when they become publicly available.
Beyond academic excellence, there are exciting developments in our school facilities that are set to enhance the learning environment for our students. This summer, the Alamosa School District completed a major upgrade to its infrastructure: the installation of a comprehensive HVAC system. This significant improvement means that all classrooms now have air conditioning, marking a substantial enhancement in student comfort and learning conditions.
Installing HVAC systems across the district is more than just a comfort upgrade; it’s a crucial step toward creating a more conducive learning environment. Air conditioning as well as quality air flow helps maintain optimal classroom temperatures, which can significantly impact students’ focus and overall academic performance. No longer will high temperatures disrupt the learning process; instead, our students can enjoy a consistent and comfortable atmosphere that supports their educational environment. This upgrade reflects our district’s commitment to providing a high-quality education and ensuring that the learning environment is safe.
The remarkable start to this school year would not have been possible without the support and collaboration of our community. The dedication of parents, teachers, administrators, and local stakeholders has played a pivotal role in achieving these milestones. It is the collective effort of everyone involved that has made these successes possible.
We had a successful summer school session, as well as three school enrollment events where our community came together to provide the necessary supplies for our students to be fully equipped on the first day of school. Our community partners also went above and beyond in providing haircuts, diapers, and backpacks full of school supplies to ensure a strong start.
The ongoing support from the community underscores the importance of working together towards a common goal: the success and well-being of our students. It is this collaborative spirit that makes the Alamosa School District a thriving educational community.
As we celebrate the achievements of the past year, it is important to look ahead with optimism and determination. The success of our students on CMAS assessments and AP tests, coupled with the improved learning environment provided by the new HVAC systems, sets a strong foundation for the future.
The Alamosa School District is committed to building on these successes and continuing to foster an environment where each student matters. This involves not only maintaining high academic standards but also embracing new opportunities for growth and development. As we continue to create the conditions for all students to be successful, we partnered with the architectural firm RTA to develop a facilities master plan. Our plan revealed maintenance needs and suggested small improvements to enhance the learning environment of students. Our general operating budget cannot cover these needs. Our board of education and administration team is considering a potential bond to continue the improvements at ASD. We invite you to attend a special board meeting on Monday, Aug. 26, at our current district office located at 403 Santa Fe Ave. Our board of education will be discussing the potential bond.
In conclusion, the start of this school year in the Alamosa School District is nothing short of exceptional. The academic gains demonstrated by our students and the significant upgrades to our facilities are a cause for celebration and a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. As we embark on this new academic year, let us carry forward the momentum of our successes and work together to achieve even greater heights. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead, filled with learning, growth, and continued excellence.
Diana Jones is ASD’s current superintendent. Luis Murillo is ASD’s current assistant superintendent.
