Blanding Elementary School is officially open.
Today’s community ribbon-cutting and tour marked a major milestone for San Juan County. Medicine man Nathan Brady led a traditional house blessing to honor the land and community.
During remarks, Dr. Christine Fitzgerald noted the building features more than 170 doors, a fitting metaphor for students because when one door closes, another always opens.
The new 87,000-square-foot facility replaces a building from 1955.
Highlights of the new school:
Cultural awareness embedded in the layout and a color palette inspired by San Juan County nature.
Dedicated spaces for preschool through fifth grade, special education, and STEM learning.
A large gymnasium with seating for 600.
Separate, safer drop-off loops for parents and buses.
Thank you to everyone who made this $47 million project possible, including a $20 million state appropriation. Students start classes soon.