The Mancos School District’s 2026-27 school year has started with a new phone policy and crew programs to promote connection among students.
In her superintendent report at their Monday night meeting, Audrey Hazleton spoke of the district’s new crew structure that was created to foster a connected environment for students.
Hazleton said this crew structure emphasizes daily opportunities for students to connect, collaborate and reflect on their academics in a way that reflects the district’s portrait of a graduate competencies.
She said the crew program doesn’t only include students. Staff members also participate in crew activities. The crew program complements the Blue Jay Way, which are a set of characteristics that build integrity, perseverance, dignity, curiosity and leadership.
On the instruction side, a new math curriculum for grades 6 through 12 is underway. The district has also partnered with Catalyst for Educational Change under a Colorado Department of Education grant. The grant is meant to strengthen student-led learning experiences that focus on belonging, collaboration, independence and agency. A consultant from Catalyst for Educational Change will return for eight days of classroom work with teachers at some point this year.
A newly adopted cellphone and smart watch policy took effect on for all students in the district, regardless of grade, on Monday. Elementary school students place their devices in teacher-managed secure storage boxes before the start of school. Middle and high school students place their devices in individual, locked lockers near the office when they arrive at school.
Though elementary and middle school students are not permitted to access their devices at any point during the school day, high school students can use them at lunch in approved, on-campus areas like the cafeteria and designated spots outdoors.
The guidelines aim to support focused learning, stronger peer connections, healthier technology habits and reduced staff time spent monitoring personal devices.
The district is also continuing to work on its strategic plan, with goals centering on healthy community, engaging learning and cohesive systems. The mission and vision statement is to be reviewed with community input this fall.
Policy reviews and updates are also in progress, with many being presented for first reading at the meeting.
bduran@the-journal.com
