March 31, 2023

Greetings Ospreys,


Sophomores ventured off campus this week to launch their interdisciplinary Energy Project, through which they will explore the essential question "How do we ethically produce, transmit/transport and consume energy efficiently?" After an introductory lesson from former AHS science teacher Steve Smith and Osprey parent Dan Harms, both with La Plata Electric Association, they visited the Vallecito hydroelectic generating station and Hesperus transfer station on Wednesday, then followed up with a visit to the San Juan College School of Energy in Farmington to increase their background knowledge and understanding of the role of oil and gas in the energy industry. We appreciate these community partners for helping root our students' learning in real-world experiences and applications.

Congratulations to senior Chloe Sturm for her first place award in a recent contest with the Butterfly Artist Collective. Her piece, entitled "Siren," was recognized for its success in connecting to the contest theme, Transformation. Beautiful work, Chloe!

A sweet visit this week from alumna Hannah Shew '20, home on break from Colorado College

Inadvertent twinning from Cedar Fisher and Madilyn Kendall in Britt's class this morning

Senior Celebration Booklet Encouragement Ads

Want to honor a graduate in the AHS class of 2023? As an important part of our Senior Celebration Booklet, student advertisements feature positive messages from family members or friends that sum up an inspirational aspect of the student’s character. Mail or drop off checks to AHS with “SCB Family Ad” in the subject line (mailing address: AHS, c/o Christine Imming, PO Box 3496, Durango, CO 81302), or pay by credit card online by visiting animashighschool.comclicking on the yellow “Donate” button, then clicking the “Make a Payment” button next to “School Fees.” Fill out the form with “SCB Family Ad” next to “What is this payment/donation for?” Please email questions or your preferred ad size, text and photo to Cindy Atchison at cindyatchison2@gmail.com. Cindy will email you an ad proof to approve before printing. Deadline to submit an ad is April 14.

TWIGS Hike with San Juan Mountain SOLES

The first of three TWIGS Hikes planned for this spring will take place next week, designed to provide a fun way for families to connect out on the trail. All parents, students and families are welcome to attend.


Meet former AHS Humanities teacher and some of her San Juan Mountain SOLES students at the trailhead at 5pm on Thursday for a gentle evening hike along with stories from the field. Good walking shoes and layers recommended, dogs welcome. Ashley is the founding director of SOLES, whose mission is to inspire youth to lead healthy lives rooted in wild places, confident leadership and authentic community engagement. Details coming next week on location as we assess trail conditions.

Time to Order Yearbooks

Pre-order your yearbook here for $40 by April 21! Yearbooks will be delivered in mid-June at a summer signing party. Questions? Email quill@animashighschool.com.



Enjoy the weekend and thanks for all you do to help the Ospreys soar!

Upcoming Events


Campus Tour for Prospective Families: Tues, 4/4 5:30pm; RSVP here


TWIGS HIke with Ashley Carruth and SOLES Sisters: Thurs. 4/6, 5pm location TBA


Student Council Easter Egg Hunt: Fri. 4/7


TWIGS Parent Coffee: Mon. 4/10, 8:30am


Spirit Week: Mon. 4/10 through Fri. 4/15


PSAT/SAT Testing Date (9th-11th grades): early release after testing for all: Wed. 4/12


CMAS Testing Date (11th grade): no early release: Thurs. 4/13


Junior/Senior Prom: Sat. 4/15, 7:30-10pm


LINK Internships (11th grade): Mon. 4/17 through Fri. 5/5


TWIGS HIke with Osprey Alum Parent Mimi Gates: Fri. 4/21, 3:30pm


Sophomore Inspire Week (10th grade): Mon. 4/24 through Fri. 4/28


TWIGS Happy Hour: Thurs. 4/27, 6pm


TWIGS HIke with AHS Co-Founder Jesse Hutt: Tues. 5/2, 9am


All School Exhibition: Thurs. 5/11, 4-7pm


Senior Project TED Talks: Thurs. 5/11 through Thurs. 5/18


Final NEST Meeting (special schedule): Thurs. 5/18


Senior Supper: Thurs. 5/18, 6-8pm


Advisory Olympics: Fri. 5/19


Graduation: Fri. 5/19, 4pm


TPOL Prep (special schedule): Mon. 5/22 and Tues. 5/23


Transitional Presentations of Learning: Wed. 5/24 through Tues. 5/31


Last Day of School: Tues. 5/31

AHS Events Calendar
AHS 2022/23 School Calendar
TWIGS Website
Animas High School prepares all students for college and postsecondary success by creating critical thinkers and engaged citizens through an innovative, student-centered, project-based curriculum. We accomplish this through:
Rigorous academics, where all students are prepared for college success
Culture of excellence, where students are held to high expectations
Strong student-faculty relationships, where students are well known.
Engaging learning, where students see the relevance in their education

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