The Montezuma-Cortez RE-1 School District held its first Family Engagement Night, featuring cultural performances and linking families to 14 community agencies.
Ute Mountain Ute royalty from Montezuma-Cortez High School performed, presented their regalia and invited attendees to join a powwow dance. The young presenters also shared frybread and brownies with the crowd. Stephen Hatch played Native flutes.
Celtic music filled the venue as local Celtic duo Sheamus performed. Teachers from the Philippines demonstrated traditional dances and shared food from their homeland.
Lisa Megel, the district’s Exceptional Student Services coordinator, organized the event. She oversees special education, Native American services, English language learners and other specialized programs. She is in her third year with the district.
Megel said it is exciting to see the community’s offerings, from the knowledge of those who have lived here for years to the opportunities available to students and residents.
“We have so much to offer in this area,” Megel told The Journal. “I think the school can be more a part of the community. It’s one of the biggest agencies with the most space. I thought it was a great opportunity to bring people together.”
About 40-50 people attended Friday evening, fewer than Megel expected.
“My goal is to make it a really big thing in the community,” Megel said. “I’ve been talking to Randy McKnight who does the Celtic festival and he’s been very encouraging. He says, ‘Don’t give up. You’re doing the right thing.’ I hope to see it grow and get big.”
Fourteen community agencies set up tables, including Axis Health System, Salvation Army, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and the Dolores Water Conservancy District.
The event served as both a celebration of the many cultures within the district and an opportunity for families to learn about available services and resources.
The next Family Engagement Night will be Friday, April 17. Organizers plan to hold the event outdoors and highlight summer opportunities, including summer school enrollment, district job openings, rafting programs, scouting activities and more.
For details or vendor inquiries, email Megel at lmegel@cortez.k12.co.us.
