DURANGO HIGH SCHOOL Welcome to
The Comprehensive Career-Connected High School
At DHS, we are transforming the high school experience to help every student succeed. Our career-connected pathways provide exciting opportunities tailored to students' interests, allowing them to earn industry certifications, college credit, and build a strong foundation for their future careers. With a team of dedicated educators, DHS offers diverse academic programs, hands-on learning experiences, and a variety of extracurricular options to meet every student's needs.
We believe every student can find their "Ikigai"—the perfect balance of doing what they love, are good at, can get paid for, and that positively impacts the world. Our pathways allow students to personalize their education, explore their passions, and create a meaningful plan for life after graduation.
We are committed to helping students develop the essential skills and dispositions outlined in our Portrait of a Graduate: Creative Problem Solvers • Agile Thinkers • Confident Communicators Empathetic Collaborators • Courageous Leaders • Resilient Risk-Takers
These competencies are fostered from kindergarten through graduation, ensuring students are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world. Our career pathways offer an exciting way to maximize high school years, enabling students to explore careers, set college goals, and participate in internships or student leadership organizations, all while shaping their future and turning passions into purpose.
This guide provides detailed information on the pathways, courses, and opportunities at DHS— designed to create a high school experience fueled by passion, opportunity, and community.
ACRONYM GLOSSARY
A/B: Year-long course
AP: Advanced Placement
CE: Concurrent Enrollment
CTE: Career and Technical Education
CTSO: Career and Technical Student Organization
FLC: Fort Lewis College
ICAP: Individual Career and Academic Plan
L1, L2, L3, and L4: The sequential course levels within a CTE pathway – if multiple courses are offered at the same level, completing any one allows progression to the next level.
PCC: Pueblo Community College
WBL: Work-Based Learning - the Level 4 course in each CTE pathway
Vision & Mission
VISION Our
To become the top-performing public high school in the state of Colorado.
Our MISSION
Excellence achieved through high expectations and cultivating positive relationships for all.
Durango High School empowers every student with an educational experience driven by passion, opportunity, and community. Students explore college and career pathways through rigorous and engaging coursework, including Advanced Placement, Concurrent Enrollment, and Career and Technical Education courses, as well as industry certifications and work-based learning experiences. The broader Durango High School community fosters a sense of belonging, addressing the diverse strengths and needs of all students.
GRADUATE Portrait of a
Students present their POG Capstone Defense during their junior year, showcasing their dispositions and skills.
PATHWAYS Career Connected at DHS
Vision & Mission
Our Purpose and Goals as a Comprehensive Career-Connected High School
Preparing for Success on Campus and Beyond
Our 15 CTE Pathways and Student Opportunities
COURSES Durango High School
English
English Language Arts 1 A/B
English Language Arts 1 Honors A/B
English Language Arts 2 A/B
English Language Arts 2 Honors A/B
English Language Arts 3 A/B
English Language Arts 4 A/B
PCC Composition A/B
AP Language and Composition A/B
AP Literature and Composition A/B
AP Seminar A/B
AP Research A/B
Public Speaking
Film Analysis
FLC Comp 150
FLC Comp 250
FLC Literature
Mathematics
Math 1 Part 1 A/B
Math 1 Part 2 A/B
Mathematics 1 A/B
Mathematics 2 A/B
Mathematics 3 A/B
General Applied Math 1 A/B
General Applied Math 2 A/B
AP Pre-Calculus A/B
AP Statistics A/B
AP Calculus AB A/B
AP Calculus BC A/B
PCC Personal Financial Literacy
PCC Technical Math
FLC Math 132 Intro to Stats
Science
Biology A/B
Chemistry A/B
Conceptual Chemistry A/B
Physics A/B
AP Environmental Science A/B
AP Biology A/B
AP Chemistry A/B
AP Physics 1 A/B
AP Physics 2 A/B
PCC Anatomy and Physiology A/B
Astronomy
Geology
FLC ENV 100 Into to Environmental Studies
Social Studies
AP Human Geography A/B
World History A/B
Modern US History A/B
US Government Economics
Psychology
AP World History A/B
AP US History A/B
AP Psychology A/B
AP Macroeconomics
PCC US Government
FLC Psych 157 Intro to Psychology
FLC Hist 281 US History since 1887
World Language
Spanish 1 A/B
Spanish 2 A/B
Spanish 3 A/B
Spanish 2 for Native Speakers A/B
AP Spanish Language A/B
AP Spanish Literature A/B
French 1 A/B
French 2 A/B
French 3 A/B
Navajo/Dine 1 A/B
Navajo/Dine 2 A/B
Navajo/Dine 3 A/B
Visual Arts - Electives
Drawing
Figure Drawing
Creative Art Comprehensive
Painting
Watercolor
Ceramics
Jewelry
Intro to Art History
Creative Art – Sculpture
Advanced 2D Studio Art
Advanced 3D Studio Art
AP Art History A/B
Art Portfolio
Music - Electives
General Band A/B
Concert Choir A/B
Orchestra A/B
Piano/Keyboard
Guitar
Percussion Instruments A/B
Technology/Electronic Music
Music Theory
Colours A/B
Treble Intermediate Choir A/B
Chamber Orchestra A/B
Jazz Ensemble A/B
Advanced Guitar
Adv. Technology/Electronic Music
Health / Physical Education
Health Education
Lifetime Rec Sports
Sports Management
Dance Fitness
Outdoor Education
Multifitness
Weight Training
Elite Athletic Performance A/B
Elite Athletic Performance for Women A/B
Performing Arts - Electives
Acting I
Tech Theater I
Acting II
Tech Theater II
Acting III A/B
Studio Acting Production
General - Electives
Print Media – Newspaper A/B
Print Media – Yearbook A/B
Peer Influence
School Leadership A/B
Teachers Assistant
Law Studies
Intro to Journalism
Pathways on Pages 15-28
OPPORTUNITIES Maximizing your
ADVANCED PLACEMENT
Students at Durango High School can greatly benefit from enrolling in at least one Advanced Placement (AP) course during high school. These courses offer a unique opportunity to earn college credit in a safe, supportive, and engaging environment while challenging students with a rigorous curriculum that fosters both content knowledge and personal growth. Additionally, AP courses help students develop essential skills such as organization, time management, and effective study habits—tools that are invaluable for academic and professional success.
“AP
gives students the chance to tackle college-level work while they're still in high school and earn college credit and placement.” – College Board
CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT
Concurrent Enrollment (CE) courses are an excellent opportunity for Durango High School students to explore their future and earn college credit in a supportive environment. Upperclassmen can take tuition-free, credit-earning courses through Fort Lewis College (FLC) or Pueblo Community College (PCC) on their campuses or at DHS as part of the Collegiate Pathway program. Additionally, all students, including freshmen, can enroll in tuition-free, credit-earning courses through select department and CTE courses at DHS that qualify as concurrent enrollment in partnership with PCC.
These courses provide an early introduction to college-level academics, including class structure, the pace of learning, and the depth of material. They also help students build essential skills like time management, teamwork, and effective study habits. By succeeding in CE courses, students gain confidence and develop a clearer understanding of what it takes to thrive in college, all while receiving the support of DHS and their home community.
STUDENT COUNCIL
Student Council at Durango High School is an exciting and dynamic leadership course where students get to plan and organize events for the student body while developing important skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork. Students can be elected or appointed to positions and work in committees to plan big events such as Homecoming, Winter Formal, Wish Week, Prom, and Graduation.
The Student Council operates under three guiding pillars:
• Hosting Quality and Diverse Events: Creating inclusive and engaging experiences for the entire school community.
• Developing Personal Leadership: Building confidence, organization, and decision-making skills through hands-on experiences.
• Representing Student Voice: Advocating for and addressing the needs and concerns of the student body.
Durango High School’s Student Council has a proud tradition of excellence, earning the prestigious National Gold Council of Excellence designation every year for over a decade. This course is perfect for students who want to make a positive difference in their school community and beyond.
CLUBS & ACTIVITIES
Being part of a school club is a great way for Durango High School students to make the most of their high school years. Clubs give you the chance to explore your interests, try new things, and take on new challenges in a supportive environment. Plus, they’re a great way to make friends and build connections that make school more fun and meaningful.
With over 40 clubs to choose from, there’s something for everyone at DHS. Whether you’re into arts, community service, or something unique, you’ll find a group that shares your passions. Joining a club helps you develop skills, grow your confidence, and feel more connected to the school, often making you more excited to get involved.
We encourage all DHS students to jump in, step out of their comfort zones, and make the most of the awesome opportunities our clubs offer. Being in a club isn’t just another activity—it’s a chance to grow, make memories, and make your high school experience unforgettable!
CAREER & TECHNICAL STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
For students enrolled in CTE pathways, CTSOs are designed to help you develop leadership skills, technical knowledge, and real-world experience in your chosen career field through competitions, community service, and networking with industry professionals.
Why You Should Join a CTSO:
• Skill Building: Learn valuable leadership, teamwork, communication, and technical skills.
• Competitions: Show off your skills in fun and challenging events at the local, state, and national levels.
• Networking: Meet new friends, connect with industry professionals, and find mentors.
• Career Readiness: Gain hands-on experience that looks great on college applications and resumes.
• Travel: Experience exciting leadership events and conferences in cool locations.
• Community Impact: Be a part of service projects and make a difference locally.
• Scholarships: Find opportunities to earn scholarships for college or other post-high school plans.
CTSOs offered at DHS include:
ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
Durango High School offers a wide range of opportunities for s tudents to showcase their talents and interests, whether on the field, court, pool, rink, or diamond. For those passionate about the arts and academics, there are activities like theater, choir, band, orchestra, and Knowledge Bowl to explore.
Participation in sports and activities goes beyond skill development—it fosters meaningful connections, teamwork, and personal growth. By getting involved, students can strengthen their Portrait of a Graduate skills, such as collaboration, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, resilience, and leadership.
Whether competing in sports, performing on stage, or solving complex challenges in Knowledge Bowl, these experiences enrich the high school journey and prepare students for future success. At DHS, we encourage every student to embrace these opportunities to grow, achieve, and shine!
Pathways
Agriculture
Business Management & Marketing
Computer & Digital Technologies
Design & Multimedia Arts
Digital Media & Communications
Engineering
Medical/Clinical Assistant
Construction
Welding
Early Childhood Education
Hospitality & Food Production
Interior & Fashion Design
Alternative Cooperative Education
Pathways in Development
EXPERIENCE the Student
What is Career and Technical Education (CTE)?
CTE programs help you learn important skills for future careers, college, or jobs. These programs provide hands-on experiences that make learning fun and connect what you do in school to real-world situations.
In CTE, you can earn college credit, earn industry certifications, and participate in work-based learning like internships. You’ll also join Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), where you can practice skills, compete, lead projects, and work with local businesses. Being part of a CTE pathway can help you get excited about your future and develop skills that employers are looking for.
Why choose a CTE Pathway?
A CTE pathway helps you focus on classes that match your interests and goals while being part of a smaller group of students who share the same passions. Your teachers and advisors will work with you to make sure your classes are connected to your future, helping you stay excited and motivated as you learn.
How do I pick my CTE Pathway?
Choosing your CTE pathway starts with thinking about what you enjoy and what you’re good at. Your interests and strengths play a big role in this decision. You’ll also use tools like YouScience to learn more about yourself and explore careers that could be a great fit. This process helps you find a path that excites you and aligns with your future college and career goals. Your Academic Advisor will support you throughout the process.
What if my friends are in a different pathway?
No worries! Even if your friends choose different pathways, you’ll still have plenty of chances to hang out in other classes or through similar career pathways and CTSOs. A CTE Pathway is a great way to meet new people who share your interests while staying connected with all your friends.
What if I don’t know what I want to do?
That’s totally okay! You can try different classes in this safe place to see what you like and what you don’t. Exploring your options now helps you figure out what’s right for you and can save you time and money in the future.
What if I'm interested in more than one pathway?
No problem! You will work with your Academic Advisor to create a plan that fits your interests, passions, and goals (your Ikigai). You can focus on up to two pathways or stay an "explorer" and take a mix of classes from different pathways to figure out what you love.
Can I take classes from other pathways?
Yes! You can take any class that interests you, even if it’s from a different pathway. Just make sure to start with the Level 1 course for that pathway.
What Is the Work-Based Learning course?
WBL is a semester-long course that offers students one of three hands-on learning experiences:
• Industry-Sponsored Projects: Work with industry partners on real-world challenges and projects.
• Student-Supervised Entrepreneurial Experiences: Create and lead a student business with guidance from industry mentors.
• “Learning at Work” Opportunities: Gain practical experience through internships, apprenticeships, or clinical experiences. Students are required to spend a minimum of 60 hours working directly with an industry partner to complete the course. This gives students valuable real-world experience while earning course credit.
What Is the Capstone course?
Capstone is a semester-long course where you get to show what you’ve learned and how you can apply it to real-world situations. You’ll choose one of two paths to complete your Capstone:
• Student-Specialized Projects: Create and manage a project based on your personal interests, goals, and skills.
• Pathway-Based Certification: Work toward earning a certificate or credential related to your CTE pathway, proving you have industry-recognized expertise. Both options focus on personalized learning and real-world skills, helping you prepare for future success in school, work, and life.
Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources
AGRICULTURE
The Agriculture Pathway is an early college pathway designed for students passionate about plant or animal sciences. The pathway follows a sequential course structure, allowing students to specialize in either Animal Science or Plant Science beginning with the Introduction to Agriculture foundations and progressing to advanced options in Ag Leadership, Work-Based Learning, or Capstone experiences. Students earn industry-recognized certifications and develop leadership skills through FFA, the pathway's career and technical student leadership organization, gaining hands-on experience and career readiness.
Pathway Required Coursework
Animal Science Introduction to Agriculture A/B
Plant Science
Introduction to Agriculture A/B
Principles of Plant Science A/B L2
Floriculture A/B L3
Ag Leadership A/B L4
Work-Based Learning
Pathway Supporting Coursework
AP Biology or Biology
AP Chemistry or Chemistry
AP Environmental Science
Anatomy and Physiology
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: FFA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
• BASF Plant Science
• Elanco Veterinary Medical Applications
• Elanco Fundamentals of Animal Science
Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community
Partners
American AgCredit • Basin Co-Op • DSNGRR Dolores State Bank • Durango Cowboy Gathering Isgar Ranch • La Plata County 4-H
Petal and Stem Florals • The Lazy BJ Cattle
Tractor Supply Company • Tuxon Ranch
Universal Trucking, LLC • Tru West Auto Outlet
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
• Agricultural Business Manager
• Agricultural Extension Agent
• Agronomist
• Animal Scientist
• Greenhouse or Nursery Manager
• Floral Designer
• Veterinary Technician
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
• Agriculture Business
• Agriculture Science
• Animal Science
• Equine Science
• Environmental Horticulture
• Horticulture
• Sustainable Agriculture
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & MARKETING
The Business Pathway is an early college pathway designed to prepare students for success in the business world. The pathway offers a sequential course structure, starting with the foundational course Intro to Business and progressing through Principles of Marketing, Principles of Management, and Entrepreneurship, culminating in Work-Based Learning and Capstone experiences. Students can earn up to 15 college credits, gain industry-recognized certifications, and develop leadership and professional skills through DECA, the pathway's career and technical student leadership organization, fostering real-world connections and career readiness.
Pathway Experiences
Engineering, Technology & Media Arts
COMPUTER & DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES
The Computer & Digital Technologies Pathway prepares students for careers in technology and digital innovation. This early college pathway offers a sequential course experience, beginning with foundational skills in Computer Programming, advancing through AP Computer Science Principles and AP Computer Science A, and culminating in Work-Based Learning and Capstone opportunities. Students gain hands-on experience and develop technical expertise while participating in the pathway’s student leadership organization, TSA, fostering collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
Pathway Required Coursework
Pathway Supporting Coursework
AP Calculus
AP Statistics A/B
Principles of Engineering & Technology
Foundations of Multimedia Arts
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: TSA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
- AP Computer Science Principles
- AP Computer Science
Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community Partners
Cisco • Fort Lewis College • Kindel, LLC
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
• AI Research Scientist
• Application Developer
• Computer Information Systems & Network Administrator
• Computer Programmer
• Cloud Architect
• Cybersecurity Engineer
• Data Scientist
• Game Developer
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Software Engineer
• User Experience (UX) Designer
• Web Developer & Designer
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
• Applied Computer Science
• Computer Information Systems
• Computer Programming
• Creative Technology & Design
• Data Science
• Software Engineering
• Web Development
ARTS Engineering, Technology & Media Arts
DESIGN & MULTIMEDIA
The Design and Multimedia Arts Pathway equips students with the skills to excel in creative industries through a structured course sequence. As part of this early college program, students begin with Foundations of Multimedia Arts, progress to Graphic Design & Illustration 1, advance to Graphic Design & Illustration 2 A/B, and culminate their experience with specialized Work-Based Learning and Capstone opportunities, including Demon Graphics, a student-led business. Along the way, students earn industry-recognized Adobe Certified Professional certifications, showcasing their expertise in professional design tools. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, TSA, further develops their collaboration, creativity, networking, and leadership skills.
Pathway Required Coursework
Pathway Supporting Coursework
PCC Introduction to Business
AP Psychology or Psychology
Computer Programming Digital
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: TSA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
- Adobe Certified Professional
Individualized WBL & Capstone
- Demon Graphics student-led business
Community Partners
Ballantine Communications FIS World Pay
Mountain Capital Partners-Purgatory Resort
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
• Art Director
• Creative Director
• Design Manager
• Graphic Designer
• Interactive Multimedia Designer
• User Interface (UI) Designer
• Multimedia Manager
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
• 3-D Graphics and Animation
• Creative Technology & Design
• Communication Design
• Digital Design
• Graphic Design
• Visual Design
Engineering, Technology & Media Arts
DIGITAL MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS
The Digital Media & Communications Pathway is an early college pathway that provides students with the opportunity to develop career-ready skills. This pathway prepares students for careers in media production and communication through a structured course sequence. Students start with Digital Media, progress to Audio/Video Production or Broadcast Production, advance to Filmmaking, and conclude with Work-Based Learning and Capstone opportunities. Throughout the pathway, students gain hands-on experience in media creation and storytelling. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, TSA, further enhances their teamwork, creativity, networking, technical and leadership skills.
Pathway Required Coursework
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: TSA
Relevant Industry Certifications
- Coming Soon
DHS Media Network
Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community Partners
Ballantine Communications
Durango Local News
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
• Audio and Video Technician
• Broadcast Journalist
• Film and Video Editor
• Media Programming Directors
• Producer
• Sportscaster
• Videographer
Pathway Supporting Coursework
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
• Audio and Video Production
• Broadcasting and Electronic Media
• Broadcast Journalism
• Communications and Media Management
• Film and Television
• Journalism and Media Production
ENGINEERING
The Engineering Pathway is an early college program designed to prepare students for success in engineering and related fields. The pathway offers a sequential course structure, beginning with foundational courses such as Principles of Engineering & Technology and Introduction to Drafting Design & Concepts. Students then progress to Introduction to Engineering Design, followed by advanced courses Applied Engineering Design and Robotics. The pathway culminates in Work-Based Learning and Capstone experiences. Students develop hands-on technical expertise and problem-solving skills while participating in the pathway's student leadership organizations, TSA and FTC Robotics, fostering teamwork, innovation, and career readiness, preparing students for real-world engineering challenges.
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: FTC Robotics
Relevant Industry Certifications: - Solidworks
Individualized WBL & Capstone Pathway Supporting Coursework
Community Partners
Agile Space Technologies
Avalis Wayfinding Solutions • Boeing Company
StoneAge • Valtec Associates
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
Look Ahead - Top College Majors
• Business Engineering and Management
Health
Criminal Justice & Public
MEDICAL / CLINICAL ASSISTANT
The Clinical/Medical Assistant Pathway is an early college program designed to prepare students for success in the healthcare field. The pathway offers a structured course sequence, starting with PCC Introduction to Healthcare Careers and PCC Medical Terminology, followed by Certified Clinical Medical Assistant A/B. Students then culminate their learning with Work-Based Learning and/or Capstone experiences. Throughout the pathway, students gain valuable hands-on experience through student-led learning labs, community projects such as the EKG Drive and Blood Drive, and earn multiple industry-recognized certifications. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, HOSA, further enhances students' professional development, leadership abilities, and career readiness, preparing them for the healthcare industry.
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: HOSA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
- CPR/AED, Stop the Bleed, Narcan Training
- Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
- Phlebotomy Tech
- EKG Tech
Student-Led Learning Labs and Experiences, Community EKG Drive and Blood Drive
International Medical Trip
Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community Partners
Common Spirit Mercy Hospital Pediatric Partners of the Southwest
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
• Anesthesiologist
• Doctor/Physician
• EKG Technician
• Medical Assistant
• Phlebotomist
Coursework
• Registered Nurse
6 College Credits Pathway Supporting
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
• Biomedical Sciences
• Health and Exercise Science
• Health Information Management
• Nursing
• Pre-Med
• Public Health
CONSTRUCTION
The Construction Pathway is an early college program designed to prepare students for success in the construction industry. The pathway offers a structured course sequence, beginning with Woodworking Technology, progressing to Carpentry Technology A/B, followed by Construction Technology A/B, and advancing to Advanced Carpentry/Woodworking A/B or Building Modeling A/B. The pathway culminates in Work-Based Learning and Capstone experiences, allowing students to gain hands-on, real-world experience. Throughout the pathway, students earn industry-recognized credentials through the Home Builders Institute, developing essential skills for the construction field. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, SkillsUSA, helps students enhance their leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for success in the workforce.
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: SkillsUSA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community Partners
Careers in Construction Colorado • eXp Realty Hermosa Trim Company • Hower Built Campers Timmerwerk Construction • Veritas Fine Homes
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
Pathway Supporting Coursework
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences
WELDING
The Welding Pathway is an early college program designed to prepare students for success in the welding industry. The pathway follows a structured course sequence, starting with Introduction to Welding, progressing to PCC Welding 1 A/B, followed by PCC Welding 2 A/B, and advancing to PCC Welding 3 A/B. Students culminate their learning with Work-Based Learning and Capstone experiences. Throughout the pathway, students earn college credits and industry-recognized certifications through the American Welding Society, gaining proficiency in various welding processes and techniques. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, SkillsUSA, enhances students' leadership, teamwork, and technical skills, equipping them for a successful career in welding.
Pathway Required Coursework
Pathway Supporting Coursework
AP Physics or Physics
PCC Intro to Business
PCC Technical Math
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: SkillsUSA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
- American Welding Society Certified Welder
College Credits
Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community Partners
CAL Steel • David Pearson Construction
Four Corners Welding and Gas Supply
Monarch Iron
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
• Aerospace Welder
• Certified Welding Inspector
• Industrial Pipeline Welder
• Military Support Welder
• Nuclear Welder
• Rig Welder
• Underwater Welder
• Welding Engineer
• Welding Specialist
A Look Ahead - Top College
Majors
• Industrial Technology
• Materials Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Welding Engineering Technology
• Welding Technology
Hospitality, Human Services & Education
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
The Early Childhood Education Pathway is an early college program designed to prepare students for success in the field of child development and education. The pathway follows a structured course sequence, starting with Introduction to Early Childhood Education, followed by Child Development, Early Childhood Education Practicum A/B), and advancing to Early Childhood Education Capstone. Students can earn college credits while gaining hands-on experience in early childhood settings. Throughout the pathway, students obtain internship placements to develop key skills in child care, curriculum planning, and classroom management. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, FCCLA, enhances their leadership, teamwork, and communication abilities, preparing them for a rewarding career in early childhood education.
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: FCCLA
Relevant Industry Certifications: - Early Childhood Education Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community Partners
Early Childhood Council of La Plata County Durango Early Learning Center Pathway Supporting Coursework
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
Child Development
• Early Childhood Education
• Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy
• Early Childhood Studies
• Elementary Education • Childhood Development • Physical Education
Hospitality, Human Services & Education
HOSPITALITY & FOOD PRODUCTION
The Hospitality & Food Production Pathway is an early college program designed for students passionate about food services and hospitality. The pathway follows a sequential course structure, offering two tracks: Catering and Culinary. Students begin with foundational courses such as Culinary Essentials and then advance through Catering 1 A/B or Pro Start 1 A/B, progressing to Catering 2 A/B or Pro Start 2 A/B. The pathway culminates in Work-Based Learning and Capstone experiences and hands-on opportunities with Demon Deli and Demon Catering. Students earn industry-recognized certifications while developing key culinary and catering skills. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, FCCLA, enhances leadership, teamwork, and career readiness, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in the culinary and catering fields.
Pathway Required Coursework
Pathway Supporting Coursework
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: FCCLA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
- Serv Safe Food Handler
- Serv Safe Manager
Individualized WBL & Capstone
- Demon Deli student-led business
- Demon Catering student-led business
Community Partners
636 Main Ave • In The Weeds
Peak Food & Beverage • Serious Texas The Roost
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
• Catering Event Owner
• Executive Chef
• Food and Beverage Director • Food Science Manager
• Food Stylist
• Food Safety Specialist
• Food Service and Hospitality Consultant
• Restaurant Owner
• Restaurant Manager
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
•
•
•
•
•
and Food Management
Human Services & Education
INTERIOR & FASHION DESIGN
The Interior & Fashion Design Pathway
is an early college program designed for students interested in creative fields such as interior design and fashion. The pathway offers two specialized tracks: Interior Design and Fashion Design. Students in the Interior Design track begin with Interior Design 1 - Residential and progress to Interior Design 2 - Commercial, with opportunities for Work-Based Learning and Capstone experiences. In the Fashion Design track, students start with Fashion Design & Merchandising 1, advance to Fashion Design & Merchandising 2, and then explore Theater Costume Design, culminating in Work-Based Learning and Capstone experiences. Throughout the pathway, students develop essential skills in design, creativity, and industry practices, gaining hands-on experience through real- world projects. Participation in the pathway’s student leadership organization, FCCLA, enhances leadership, teamwork, and career readiness, preparing students for success in interior design, fashion, and merchandising careers.
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: FCCLA
Relevant Industry Certifications:
- Coming Soon
Biannual Fashion Show
Individualized WBL & Capstone
Community Partners
2180 Lighting & Design Studio
Dorothy Parker Design • Lively (A Boutique) Urban Market Interiors
A Look Ahead - Top Careers
A Look Ahead - Top College Majors
Pathway Supporting Coursework
Alternative Cooperative Education (ACE)
is a multi-occupational pathway that facilitates individualized, developmentally appropriate programming necessary to support students identified as Special Populations. ACE programming is developed through collaboration with educators, business representatives and community stakeholders. The collaboration creates locally responsive, relevant work-based and school-based learning experiences. ACE students will demonstrate competency in Postsecondary Workforce Readiness that lead to technical skill attainment in any chosen occupation with a focus on high wage occupations or high skill in high demand industries that promote self sufficiency.
Pathway Required Coursework
Pathway Experiences
Correlating CTSO: SC2
BEST Supply Store on DHS Campus Common Grounds Cafe at the Durango Library
Postsecondary Workforce Readiness
Pathways in Development
Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences
AVIATION
The Aviation Pathway is a ground-based program designed to introduce students to the exciting and dynamic field of aviation. The pathway begins with Introduction to Aviation and Aerospace (A/B), a foundational course that covers the principles of flight, aircraft systems, and industry regulations. Students will gain practical experience by applying skills and procedures in simulated flight environments, with the opportunity to prepare for and take the FAA Private Pilot written exam.
Pathway Required Coursework
Intro to Aviation and Aerospace (A/B) L1
Pathways in Development
Hospitality, Human Services & Education
Summary
EDUCATION & TRAINING
The Education and Training Pathway focuses on teaching, instructional design, counseling, community engagement, learner support, and educator training, with an emphasis on quality education standards and lifelong learning. Students will build critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills to prepare for meaningful contributions in the field.
Students have the opportunity to begin their journey in Durango High School's Early Childhood Education Pathway. Additionally, supporting courses in the Collegiate Pathway, including FLC Global Perspectives and Children’s Literature, offer further opportunities for deeper exploration and academic growth.
