Alamosa School District delays school opening by a day

Alamosa schools will start one day later than planned so that construction and inspection of the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning system can be completed, and teachers can be prepared for their students.

All orientations and conferences are now scheduled to begin on Monday, Aug. 14 with the first day of school slated for Tuesday, Aug. 15.

A letter sent out by ASD Superintendent Diana Jones said, “After much deliberation and consultation with the construction and HVAC companies working diligently to provide quality air circulation for our students and staff, we have determined that it is best to delay the start of school by one day. This will allow our elementary and middle school staff an opportunity to get into their rooms to prepare for our students as well as have all necessary inspections completed. We recognize that the change in schedule may pose an inconvenience to some of you, and for that we apologize.”

Being awarded a BEST grant for the new HVAC system was a major victory for the district. When the old system was in operation, Assistant Superintendent Luis Murillo has told the Valley Courier that, on some days, temperatures in classrooms on the second floors of buildings were more than 80 degrees, often interfering with student learning and performance.

“We are excited to have the construction and HVAC projects primarily completed for our staff and students,” Jones said. “The extra day of preparation will assist the staff in having time in their rooms to prepare for our students. Thank you in advance for your patience and flexibility. We are looking forward to a great year.”

The amended schedule is as follows:

Aug. 14 — AHS — Ninth grade orientation

Aug. 14 — OMS — Sixth-grade orientation

Aug. 14 — AES 3-5 — Third-grade orientation

Aug. 14 — K2 and AES 3-5 — First, second, fourth and fifth grades Parent Teacher conferences

Aug. 14-17 — Kindergarten staggered start will begin Monday, Aug. 14.

Aug. 14 — AAS/AOS — orientation for new students

Aug. 15 — First day of school for all students and staff