Student defends Durango Schools’ SEL work as parent questions tax burden
Summary
A sixth‑grade student told the Durango School District No. 9‑R board that teachers have not asked about students' gender and praised brief SEL sessions; a parent later questioned the value taxpayers receive after describing years of property tax payments and district spending figures.
Jordan Johnson, a sixth‑grade student at Miller Middle School, told the Durango School District No. 9‑R board on Nov. 11 that claims the district is "gender changing kids" are false and described supportive, neutral behavior from teachers.
"This is my sixth year at Durango Schools, and I've never heard a teacher ask me about my gender or try to influence how I identify," Jordan said during the public comment period. He added that teachers "show kindness, respect, and neutrality" and that short social‑emotional lessons help students "practice how to be kind to one another." Jordan also cited his academic placement—double advanced math and Top 11 statewide ranking—as evidence the district provides strong academics.
Later in the public comment period, parent and district graduate Claire Hawk described paying about $12,785 in property taxes over 15 years and questioned how the district can spend an estimated $72,520 annually "on my child's behalf" when her contribution has been roughly $900 per year. "How can I be sure that my contribution to the school…is being well spent?" Hawk asked, urging taxpayer accountability.
The board read its public participation rules at the start of the meeting, reminding speakers that comments are limited to three minutes and that the board will not engage in dialogue during public comment.
The meeting's public comment thus included both a defense of district SEL practice by a student and a taxpayer's request for clearer fiscal accountability. The board did not take action on either item at the session; both issues remained public comment topics to inform future discussion and staff follow‑up.
