Center of Focus

October 26^th, 2025

Focus on the Fabulous

Even with the federal government shut down, Center Schools made its presence known in Washington, D.C., standing strong for rural schools and advocating for Secure Rural Schools (SRS) funding.

On Monday morning, our three FFA officers, Hayley Lozano, Elijah Garcia, and Vanessa Lopez, joined 30 other students from across the nation to meet with the staff of Speaker of the House Johnson and share their stories about rural education and the vital impact SRS funding has on our district. I could not have been prouder of our students. They spoke with confidence, sincerity, and professionalism, representing Center Schools in the finest way possible.

Hayley showed great courage by being one of the first to speak and set the tone for the discussion. Vanessa and Elijah followed with heartfelt testimonies about their experiences attending Center Schools and how federal funding has provided the support and resources that make a real difference in students’ lives.

After meeting with the Speaker’s staff, our team visited the offices of Representatives Hurd, Crank, and Neguse, leaving behind an informational packet that included student bios, facts on SRS and rural education, and our Viking Profile.

That wasn’t the only advocacy happening last week. On Friday, I had the opportunity to meet with Senator Hickenlooper, alongside other San Luis Valley leaders, to discuss the State of the SLV. I shared updates on our students’ trip and the unique challenges small rural districts face compared to our urban counterparts. I continued to emphasize the need for strong federal support of rural public education.

On Thursday, during Parent-Teacher Conferences, we hosted our Second Annual Harvest Party.  It was a fun event that brought together families, staff, and community members to celebrate the close of harvest season.

Families enjoyed a tasty baked potato bar, generously donated by Neufeld Farms and prepared by our awesome Food Services Team. Students had a great time participating in activities, including creating their own Mr. and Mrs. Viking Potato Heads and enjoying face painting. A special thank-you goes to Alondra Maldonado for her creativity and leadership in organizing the fun!

Our district goes the extra mile with events like the Harvest Party to reinforce the power of family-school partnerships. When families, educators, and community members come together, we strengthen the relationships that support our students’ learning, well-being, and sense of belonging. It was a fun night filled with connection, laughter, and Viking pride!

District Ownership Plan at Work

Priority #1 – Curriculum and Instruction

CCSD staff lead rigorous, engaging, collaborative learning experiences in every classroom that align with CCSD Instructional Expectations.

CHS students in Ms. Archuleta’s class participated in the annual Environthon field day and conducted water testing on the Rio Grande.  This is a great real-world learning experience that Ms. Archuleta makes available to our students every year! 

Priority #2 – Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness (PWR)

CCSD develops hardworking learners who are contributors, problem solvers, effective communicators, and future-ready with the skills needed to succeed.

Priority #3 – Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)

CCSD maintains high expectations for student learning and behavior, with structures in place to support all students.

The first round of Parent Teacher Conferences and secondary home visits took place on Wednesday and Thursday.  We must partner with our district families to ensure high-quality education for each of our students and to provide the supports they need so they can be successful and perform at high levels. 

Priority #4 – Recruitment and Retention (R&R)

CCSD is committed to attracting, training, and retaining highly qualified teachers, knowing that effective educators are the single most important school-based factor in student success.

Congratulations to Reyna Miramontes, who passed her ServSafe test!  As a district, we are required to have two staff members in our food services department who are ServSafe certified.  We are proud of Reyna for taking on the extra challenge and earning this certification. 

Fast Forward

Monday, Oct. 27^th-  Red Ribbon Week, Grants Meeting, C&I meeting

Tuesday, Oct. 28^th- FSCP Meeting, Middle School Winter Sports Meeting

Wednesday, Oct. 29^th- Rural Alliance, Admin. Team Meeting, SLV Superintendents PLC, DOT Meeting

Thursday, Oct. 30^th- Haskin Halloween Parade, Weekly OAC Meeting, Free Dental Screenings, Lady Vikings Volleyball @ Creede

Friday, Oct. 31^st-  CHS Football @ Trinidad, Happy Halloween! CCCHCS Football @ TrinidadProfePossional Goals Due