Animas High School
Life as an Osprey
An Animas education includes much more than classroom learning. Student life is rooted in an inclusive, supportive school community and flagship programs foster engagement, self-awareness and responsibility to others.
More Than Academics: Supporting the Whole Student
At AHS, student wellbeing is built into how we operate every day. Our licensed Dean of Wellness, inclusive special education support, weekly XBlocks, and student-led clubs are all designed to support the whole student: physically, mentally, socially, and academically.
Flagship Programs
Four experiences. One common thread: students doing work that matters.
01
Senior Project
The capstone of an AHS education. Every senior designs, executes, and publicly presents a year-long independent project on a topic of their choosing. It is a rite of passage that demands initiative, accountability, and genuine expertise.
- Student-directed research and creation over a full academic year
- Faculty and community mentor guidance throughout the process
- Final public presentation to a panel of peers, staff, and community members
- Builds portfolio-ready work and real presentation skills
02
LINK Internships
LINK connects AHS students with local businesses, nonprofits, and organizations across the Durango community for hands-on internship experiences. Students earn credit while discovering what career paths truly feel like from the inside.
- Placements across diverse fields including healthcare, arts, engineering, and education
- Structured reflection and goal-setting integrated into the program
- Builds professional networks and workplace skills before graduation
- Strengthens AHS’s deep roots in the Durango community
03
Osprey Blocks
Osprey Blocks are extended, interdisciplinary learning experiences that replace traditional class periods with immersive, project-centered days. Students dive deep into real problems, collaborate across subject areas, and produce meaningful work rather than completing isolated assignments.
- Cross-disciplinary projects that connect multiple subject areas
- Extended time blocks allow for depth, not just coverage
- Student teams take on authentic challenges with tangible outcomes
- Fosters creativity, collaboration, and independent problem solving
04
Class Trips
At AHS, class trips are not field trips. They are intentional, academically integrated travel experiences that bring classroom learning to life. Each grade level participates in trips designed to challenge students, strengthen community bonds, and connect curricula to the broader world.
- Grade-level trips with specific academic and experiential learning goals
- Destinations range from regional Colorado landscapes to national and international locations
- Pre-trip preparation and post-trip reflection built into the curriculum
- Builds class cohesion and shared experience across the AHS community
Student Led
Student Activities for Every Interest
Each quarter, students choose from a rotating menu of clubs that meet during the school day. Don’t see what you’re looking for? AHS encourages students to start their own.
Athletics
Get Out There, Osprey
AHS may be a charter school outside the Durango School District, but our student-athletes show up and compete. From mountain bike racing to team sports, Ospreys stay active.
Performing Arts
Create. Perform. Connect.
AHS offers rich performing arts opportunities through electives and extracurricular programs. Whether students are drawn to the stage, a microphone, or a recording studio, there is a place to develop their craft.
AHS Playmakers
Students act, direct, write, do set design, and more through Theater electives that produce full productions for the AHS community.
Music with iAM Music
In partnership with iAM Music, AHS music electives give students the opportunity to form bands, write original music, record tracks, and perform publicly in Durango.
Beyond AHS
Durango is Your Campus Too
The Durango area is full of opportunities for young people outside of school. AHS students are encouraged to explore the community organizations, recreation programs, and youth spaces that make this region exceptional.