At its first meeting of the 2025-26 school year, the Southwest Open School board reviewed its strategic plan and professional development report for August, while celebrating recent campus improvements.
The board highlighted updates to its website and renovations to the La Plata and La Casa buildings, which received new stucco and wainscoting. The Chaco building’s flooring was also completed.
The updated website outlines various after-school programs and activities. From Monday through Thursday, students are invited to join SWOS Director Katri Rittenhouse and Chris for “coffee talk” from 7:15 to 7:45 a.m.
After-school offerings include board games, driver’s education, credit recovery, art and anime club, kayaking, ski club, book club, construction and cooking classes. Full details are available at http://www.southwestopenschool.org.
An art installation for the community is planned for September.
The board also discussed the renewed emphasis on the student portfolio process, supported by updated grading and attendance policies.
Several grants were awarded for the school year, some extending beyond it. Notable awards include a $16,972 LOR grant to support esports and biking clubs, and a Daniels Fund grant to complete the four-seasons greenhouse and update drip irrigation lines.
Additional funding includes a $14,480 LOR grant and a $5,933 grant from the Montezuma County Emergency Food and Shelter Program to provide food and snacks for students.
SWOS also received a reengagement grant totaling $100,000 for the next school year, part of a three-year award.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss expectations for meeting formats.
The board’s focus for September will be on Unified Improvement Plans.
