EDUCATION IN LA PLATA COUNTY
Education in La Plata County reflects the values of its communities: connection, opportunity, and lifelong learning. Our region offers a wide range of programs that prepare students for success close to home. Families benefit from three strong public school districts, multiple charter and independent schools, and respected higher education institutions.
Early Childhood Education & Childcare
High-quality early learning is a cornerstone of life in La Plata County. Families can choose from licensed child care centers, public preschool classrooms, Montessori programs, and private or faith-based options that support children from birth to age five.
Licensed Child Care in La Plata County
Across the county, there are 19 licensed child care centers and homes providing full-time care for young children and 26 total Early Childcare programs. Most centers report operating at 85–90% capacity with waitlists, especially for infant and toddler care, which means planning ahead is important for families moving to the area.
Cost and Access
Tuition rates vary by program and age group, but recent data shows that infant care averages around the high $60s per day, toddler care in the mid $60s, and preschool care in the low $40s per day. Families who qualify may be able to offset some of these costs through programs like the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) and other local supports
Local support for Families and Providers
Child care providers across La Plata County are working hard to meet demand while navigating staffing and capacity challenges. To support this work, the Early Childhood Council of La Plata County and the La Plata Economic Development Alliance have developed a targeted investment strategy that identifies where expanded capacity and quality improvements are most needed.
Guided by this strategy, the City of Durango, local philanthropic partners, and private businesses have begun making targeted contributions to strengthen the child care system. These investments, combined with ongoing coordination and training from the Early Childhood Council, reflect a countywide commitment to ensuring more families can access reliable early learning opportunities close to home.
K-12
Public School Districts
Durango School District (9-R)
Serving the largest population in the county, Durango School District 9-R includes seven elementary schools, two middle schools, Big Picture High School, and Durango High School. The district strives to “create a learning environment where all students own their learning, act on their learning, and impact their community”, and maintains strong academic outcomes. Additionally, their Portrait of a Graduate approach equips students with the skills and purpose they need for the future they choose.
Bayfield School District 10-JTR
Bayfield School District includes Bayfield Primary, Bayfield Intermediate, Bayfield Middle, and Bayfield High School. These schools are known for their strong academic and athletic programs as well as supportive culture. The district’s mission focuses on personalizing student achievement and ensuring future-ready citizens through safe, supportive school culture and partnerships with the community and staff.
Ignacio School District 11-JT
Ignacio schools reflect the community’s deep cultural roots and dedication to student success. There are 3 public schools in the district, Ignacio Elementary, Ignacio Middle, and Ignacio High School. Small class sizes and strong partnerships with local tribes and families create an inclusive environment where every student is known and supported.
Independent, Charter, and Specialty Schools
DURANGO MONTESSORI SCHOOL
An independent PreK-6 Montessori program offering child-centered learning with an emphasis on independence, curiosity, and hands-on exploration.
ST. COLUMBA SCHOOL
A private Catholic school offering PreK–8 education with small class sizes, values-based instruction, and a strong focus on academic and social development.
JUNIPER SCHOOL
A K–8 charter school centered on small classes, whole-child development, and experiential learning.
MOUNTAIN MIDDLE SCHOOL
Free, public charter school integrating project-based learning for grades 4 thru 8.
ANIMAS HIGH SCHOOL
A college-prep charter high school built around real-world, project-based learning.
LIBERTY SCHOOL
A private, independent school serving students with dyslexia and other learning differences through one-on-one instruction and small classes.
Adult Education & Colleges
FORT LEWIS COLLEGE (FLC)
Fort Lewis College is Durango’s hometown gem with a unique and beautiful mountain campus. It overlooks the Animas River Valley and historic downtown. Its culture fosters exploration and life-long learning. The college brings an exciting vibe to the area and offers students and residents additional cultural opportunities through special events, music and more.
PUEBLO COMMUNITY COLLEGE SOUTHWEST
Pueblo Community College (PCC) Southwest offers educational programs and services in La Plata County as well as a secondary campus in a neighboring town. Students can enroll in transfer degree options to prepare for a four-year college or an exciting career. Furthermore, PCC Southwest has developed several transfer articulation agreements with Fort Lewis College.
DURANGO ADULT EDUCATION CENTER (DAEC)
The Durango Adult Education Center is a place that moves people forward, instilling hope and possibility in a caring learning environment. DAEC offers small learning environments and can adapt programs to the individual needs of its students. A strong culture of excellence gives students a sense of belonging that is free of judgment. Its primary focus is on high school equivalency programs and English as a Second Language.
PROJECT RUN
Project RUN is a professional certification program for adult learners and opportunity seekers. A collaboration between The La Plata Economic Alliance and FLC, this program hosts trainings that develop industry-specific, relevant skills such as management, leadership, technology, and office skills.