January is School Board Recognition Month in Colorado

January is School Board Recognition Month, and the Mancos School District Re-6 is joining other districts across Colorado to thank these community volunteers for their commitment and contributions to our schools.

"School board members serve countless hours working to make public education the best it can be for every child," said Superintendent Brian Hanson. "In a climate of change and challenge, they develop policies and make tough decisions on complex educational and social issues that affect the entire community and the individual students. They bear responsibility and oversight in the Mancos School District for an annual budget of $ million; over 400 students from preschool to high school; and more than 70 employees.

"Preparing students to be productive citizens and the leaders of tomorrow is a tremendous task. As elected official, school board members are the voice of their communities, serving first and foremost in the best interest of our school children," said Hanson.

"We proudly salute these education advocates as they provide vision and leadership for student achievement, academic programs, district funding, and school facilities. Their service ensures that decisions about local public schools are made by those most familiar with the needs of our community's children and families, Hanson said. "These dedicated individuals deserve recognition and thanks for their unfailing commitment to the continuing success of our students now and in the future," he said.

The men and women serving the Mancos School District are: Monty Guiles, board president and local businessman; Wesley A. Rivera, board vice president and medical administrator at the La Plata County Sheriff's Office; Boe Hawkins, board secretary and diesel mechanic at Wagner Equipment Company in Durango: Blake Mitchell, board treasurer and part-owner of the Tru Auto Deals in Durango; and Beverly Humiston, a fourth-generation rancher. Rivera, Hawkins, Mitchell, and Humiston are alumni of the district. Guiles and Rivera have served on the Board since 2010; Humiston was elected to the board in 2011; and Hawkins and Mitchell were elected in 2013. Guiles, Rivera and Hawkins have children in Mancos our schools.

"Great leadership always begins with a willing heart, a positive attitude, and a desire to make a difference. Please join us as we applaud these local leaders for truly caring about our kids," Hanson said.