Durango High School

I have had two students at Durango High School. My older son graduated and went on to a highly competitive college in another state. He felt well prepared by his high school experience. My other son is still at the school and has been very active in extracurricular activities, teams, and honors and AP classes. The teachers have gone out of their way for both my kids, to be supportive and helpful. I have never had a complaint or a bad experience.
--Submitted by a parent

As an estranged parent living 250 miles away, the three teachers i spoke with about my son were at the least, polite, informative and professional. One was especially helpful and caring and is taking the initiative in mentoring my son towards college. The administration is the problem in my opinion.
--Submitted by a parent

I have had kids in the district from 1st to 12th grade. The biggest problem with the school is curriculum. The district adopted and integrated math curriculum that doesn't work. As a result, 38% math proficiency. I also object to the language curriculum. Whole language was abandoned for primary english speakers. Why would we continue to use it for foreign language. They also promote failure through homework policies. The drop out rate is astronomical
--Submitted by a parent

The amount of violence in this school is crazy to say the least. The teachers and staff need to be more encouraging to these students and more respectful to parents. These kids are driven very hard and based on what I've seen and heard there is no compassion.
--Submitted by a parent

Although they may have some disadvantages they have all that you need. A basketball team, swim team, football team, dance team, ect. and many more activities you can be involved in. They teach a very well educated system, and help all students when asked. A school to love and a safe school to spend your last four years in.
--Submitted by a student

When there is violence nothing is done about it in terms of approaching the entire school to tell them these moments of 'boys being boys' are inappropriate and unacceptable. There are over 1400 students, and each teacher teaches approx. 300 students per year, because the school is on a trimester schedule with 75 minute classes. Just when a teacher figures out a child, it is time to get new students. They seem to give the students 2 core subjects each trimester, and expect them to go up to 6 months before being taught Language Art or Math again. Everyone knows what a student 'forgets' after a summer vacation, so I'm not sure why they think going without English for six months works.
--Submitted by a parent

I am actually a student at Durango High School and will be beginning my senior year in about a week. While school will always be a bit of a drag, I have truly been impressed with Durango High and all it has to offer. Durango is growing, and at times the school seems a little cramped (especially due to recent construction and renovation); however, the extensive amount of programs that Durango High has to offer has always impressed me. The high school encourages kids to be an active member of the community through internships, volunteer work, and field trips. Durango High provides a safe and personal enviroment while encouraging kids to challenge themselves and grow.
--Submitted by a student

Durango High School is a wonderful high school, one of the best in the state. Our teachers are wonderful and really try to help out our students. Our FBLA, Mock Trial, Pro Start, FFA, Knowledge Bowl, and Chess Club are some of the best in the state. Every year our basketball team is amoung the best in the state as is our baseball and football teams. We also offer softball, swiming, golf, tennis, volleyball, track, wrestling, lacross, and skiing. Our parents are all very involved and our test scores all are above the state level and above any other school in the area. Best school for 200 miles without a doubt.
--Submitted by a student