Superintendent
Welcome!
Welcome to the 2011-2012 school year at Durango School District 9-R. It is with pride I accept the challenge as interim superintendent to continue the collaborative atmosphere that has been established between the Board of Education, parents, students, staff, community, and the building and district administrations to assure an unobstructed focus on the needs and strengths of all students.
The first priority of any school district is student achievement. Obviously, many support systems must be in place and operate efficiently to guarantee the quality of the teaching/learning environment in each classroom. When any support system is not effective, it is possible to lose sight of why educators come together for the benefit of the community’s children. The Strategic Plan is a model of how the community and school district work together to follow a well-defined road map to address and support the vital components of a successful school system. Such a process keeps the academic growth of all students as the end result.
At the beginning of each school year, there is a renewed excitement for the teaching and learning process. Friendships are rekindled, expectations are high, and enthusiasm is at its zenith. The energy present at the first staff meeting, first practice, and the first day of school is enticing, positive, and contagious. I challenge myself first and then each school district employee, student, parent, and the community to treat each upcoming school day as the next best chance to bring our best performance.
Bill Esterbrook
Interim Superintendent of Schools
Staff Listing
| Name | Job Title | Ext. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bill Esterbrook | besterbrook@durango.k12.co.us | Superintendent of Schools | 1448 |
| Jane Schold | jschold@durango.k12.co.us | Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and Board | 1448 |
District at a Glance
- Students: approx 4,227
- Teachers: 333
- 12 Years Avg Experience
- 69% with Masters Degree
- Support Staff: 193
- Schools:
- 7 Elementary Schools
- 2 Middle Schools
- 1 High School
- Area Served: 1,039 sq miles
Our Mission
The mission of Durango School District 9-R, an innovative educational system committed to excellence, is to ensure each student develops the skills and attributes for lifelong learning and has the ability to compete and contribute in the global community, by guaranteeing equitable educational opportunities in a safe and healthy environment.



