Greetings Students, Parents, and Guardians,
I am deeply grateful to the students and teachers of Salida High School for a quarter filled with impactful teaching and learning experiences. Your continued dedication is much appreciated!
Academic First Quarter
The first academic quarter for the 2026-2027 school year has concluded. Progress Reports for every student were mailed out Oct 12 or check the parent portal on Infinite Campus. These progress grades are non-transcriptable and serve as an interim report for the halfway point of the semester.
Advisory Highlights
9th Graders- Focused on transitioning to high school (navigating schedules, handbooks, and teacher communication) and exploring potential careers via the Career Interest Profiler. Recently, students shifted to key academic success skills, including time management, study habits, note-taking, and stress management.
10th Graders- Re-established high school routines while deepening career exploration by matching personal strengths and values to post-secondary pathways (college, career, or workforce).
11th Graders- Focused on building organization systems for increased academic rigor, completing the Achieveworks Skills Assessment, and engaging in core values self-discovery to guide post-secondary planning.
12th Graders- Working through College Application or Exploratory Checklists. College-bound seniors are preparing for Free Application Days (week of Oct 20), while exploratory students refine future plans. Parents are encouraged to review progress with their students.
Big Read Book Club:
You are invited to join the SHS Big Read Book Club meeting! Join us for a community book club for parents, teachers, and community members discussing Addiction Inoculation by Jessica Lahey, presented by Book Club Salida in partnership with Salida School District, Chaffee County Public Health and Family and Youth Initiatives.
The Addiction Inoculation Book Club
Colorado Free Application Days
October 20-22 All 32 public colleges and universities in Colorado, along with several private institutions, will waive their application fees, making it free for anyone to submit an application.
October 21 - Free Application Day Workshop hosted by School Counselors, Ms. Christensen and Ms. Catalano 9:00 AM- 1:00 PM in the Commons
PSAT Testing - Tuesday, October 21, 2026
On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Salida High School will administer the Digital PSAT to all 9th, 10th, and 11th graders. Classes will not be occurring, and all 9th, 10th, and 11th graders are expected to participate in the Digital PSAT.
The following tests will be given to each grade:
Grade 9: PSAT9
Grades 10 and 11: PSAT10/NMSQT
Schedule for the Day: Testing times will vary depending on your student's grade and testing accommodations:
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM: 11th graders and 9th/10th graders with extended time
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM: 9th and 10th graders with standard time
Buses will all run at their regularly scheduled times
Drama Production: Shrek the Musical
Please mark your calendars for Salida High School’s drama production of Shrek The Musical. There will be three showings in the Salida High School Auditorium:
November 13: 7:00 PM
November 14: 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Have a good weekend and Goooo Spartans!!!
Principal Hull
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We look forward to seeing you tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23, from 5:00–7:00 PM for Parent-Teacher Conferences.
This year, we will be using a new format designed to provide families with an opportunity to meet with all of their student’s teachers. Teachers will have tables set up in the main gym, where parents can visit with individual teachers about their student’s progress and learn more about the courses in which their student is enrolled.
To help ensure that all families have an opportunity to meet with teachers, we kindly ask that you limit each conference to a maximum of 10 minutes. If additional time is needed, parents and teachers can make arrangements to connect at another time.
Thank you for partnering with us in supporting our students. We look forward to seeing you tomorrow evening!
Sincerely,
Jesse Hull
Principal
Salida High School Homecoming Football Game Weather Delay
Attention Salida High School Community,
Tonight’s Friday, September 18 homecoming football game between Salida High School and Bennett High School is currently under a 30-minute weather delay.
Kickoff is now scheduled for 7:30 PM. Please stay tuned for further updates regarding stadium access and schedule adjustments as conditions are monitored. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we prioritize the safety of our student-athletes and fans.
Go Spartans!
Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,
I hope everyone is ready for an exciting week coming up. Happy Homecoming.
College Fair:
College Fair Registration:
Salida High School is hosting the Colorado Council College Fair on September 14th from 9:00-10:00AM. This exciting event is geared toward juniors and seniors.
Students, please register for a barcode before the event at www.StriveFair.com. Colleges will scan your barcode so they are able to share information with you. Because we are a phone free school, we will have barcodes printed for the students who register for the event.
Board of Education Meeting: Tuesday, September 15 at 6:00 PM (627 Oak St)
School Accountability Committee
We are seeking volunteers for the SHS School Accountability Committee (SAC). The purpose of the SAC is to inform, encourage, and provide opportunities for parents and community members to be involved in the planning and evaluation of the school's instructional program and quality improvement processes. We will hold four meetings during the school year in the SHS Library from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM:
Tuesday, September 15
Agenda - SHS Action Plan, School Performance Framework, Questions for open discussion
Tuesday, November 17
Tuesday, February 16
Tuesday, April 20
Big Read Book Club:
You are invited to join the SHS Big Read Book Club meeting! Join us for a community book club for parents, teachers, and community members discussing Addiction Inoculation by Jessica Lahey, presented by Book Club Salida in partnership with Salida High School.
Big Read Book Club Addiction Inoculation.pdf
Parent Teacher Conferences will be held Wednesday, September 23 5:00PM -7:00 PM
Homecoming September 14-19
Mon. Sep. 14
Standard Assembly Schedule
11:30 Assembly (SHS Gym)
6:30 Peach Fuzz Volleyball (SHS Gym)
Tues. Sep. 15
6:30 Soccer Vs. Canon City (Spartan Stadium)
Wed. Sep. 16
Float Building
4:30 Parade-Start in SHS parking lot- 9th St- F St - 4th St- E St
6:00 Powderpuff and Tailgate (Spartan Stadium)
Thurs. Sep. 17
6:30 Volleyball Vs. Banning Lewis (SHS Gym)
Fri. Sep. 18
7:00 Football Vs. Bennett (Spartan Stadium)
Sat. Sep 19
8:00-10:00 Dance SHS Commons
If your student wants to bring a date who does not go to Salida High School, they must get a form from the front office and return it by Wednesday, September 17. As a reminder:
Current SHS students may only bring 1 guest
Guests must be recent SHS alumni or currently enrolled in a High School or Post-Secondary School
No guest 21 or older will be permitted to attend
No middle school students will be permitted to attend
HEA students do not need a dance form and may attend
Goooo Spartans!
Principal Jesse Hull
Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,
Happy Labor Day Weekend. Good Luck to the Spartan Cross Country Harriers competing at Niwot this evening and the Spartan Football team clashing on the Spartan Stadium Gridiron with the Buena Vista Demons at 7 PM. Also, look forward to the Marching Spartan Band performing at Half Time.
College Fair:
College Fair Registration:
Salida High School is hosting the Colorado Council College Fair on September 14th from 9:00-10:00AM. This exciting event is geared toward juniors and seniors.
Students, please register for a barcode before the event at www.StriveFair.com. Colleges will scan your barcode so they are able to share information with you. Because we are a phone free school, we will have barcodes printed for the students who register for the event.
School Accountability Committee
We are seeking volunteers for the SHS School Accountability Committee (SAC). The purpose of the SAC is to inform, encourage, and provide opportunities for parents and community members to be involved in the planning and evaluation of the school's instructional program and quality improvement processes. We will hold four meetings during the school year in the SHS Library from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM:
Tuesday, September 15
Tuesday, November 17
Tuesday, February 16
Tuesday, April 20
Big Read Book Club:
You are invited to join the SHS Big Read Book Club meeting! Join us for a community book club for parents, teachers, and community members discussing Addiction Inoculation by Jessica Lahey, presented by Book Club Salida in partnership with Salida High School.
Big Read Book Addiction Innoculation Flier (1).jpg
Monday, September 7 Labor Day, and there will be no school.
Parent Teacher Conferences will be held Wednesday, September 23 5:00PM -7:00 PM
Homecoming September 14-19
Mon. Sep. 14
11:30 Assembly (SHS Gym)
6:30 Peach Fuzz Volleyball (SHS Gym)
Tues. Sep. 15
6:30 Soccer Vs. Canon City (Spartan Stadium)
Wed. Sep. 16
4:30 Parade
6:00 Powderpuff and Tailgate (Spartan Stadium)
Thurs. Sep. 17
6:30 Volleyball Vs. Banning Lewis (SHS Gym)
Fri. Sep. 18
7:00 Football Vs. Bennett (Spartan Stadium)
Sat. Sep 19
8:00-10:00 Dance SHS Commons
If your student wants to bring a date who does not go to Salida High School, they must get a form from the front office and return it by Wednesday, September 17. As a reminder:
Current SHS students may only bring 1 guest
Guests must be recent SHS alumni or currently enrolled in a High School or Post-Secondary School
No guest 21 or older will be permitted to attend
No middle school students will be permitted to attend
HEA students do not need a dance form and may attend
Advisory
On Thursday, we had our club fair in which students signed up for clubs of interest which they will be part of every Thursday during Advisory. Teachers are offering a variety of clubs from rock climbing, yoga, bike cruisers, engineering, video games, picnic, reading, etc.
We continue to focus on the 4 buckets of advisory: belonging, post secondary workforce readiness, academic support and durable skills.
Goooo Spartans!
Principal Jesse Hull
Hello Spartan Parents and Guardians,
The Volleyball team took care of business last night in 3 sets beating the dreaded Demons from up north. It fired me up to see so many of our students at the game. Good luck to all our teams and clubs this weekend!
Our sports teams and activities—Cheer, Drama, Boys Golf, Marching Band, Cross Country, Mountain Biking, Football, and Volleyball—are all off to a great start.
Shout out to our own Andre Wilkins, The Colorado Bandmasters Association, an influential state music organization, just honored Andre for his exceptional work as a Small School educator.
Thank you for helping us keep our purpose in focus:
We take care of each other.
We know every student by name, need, and strength.
Every student will be able to verbalize and articulate a post-secondary pathway.
Every student can identify an adult they are connected to in the building.
School Accountability Committee
We are seeking volunteers for the SHS School Accountability Committee (SAC). The purpose of the SAC is to inform, encourage, and provide opportunities for parents and community members to be involved in the planning and evaluation of the school's instructional program and quality improvement processes. We will hold four meetings during the school year in the SHS Library from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM:
Tuesday, September 15
Tuesday, November 17
Wednesday, February 16
Tuesday, April 20
Big Read Book Club:
You are invited to join the SHS Big Read Book Club meeting! Join us for a community book club for parents, teachers, and community members discussing Addiction Inoculation by Jessica Lahey, presented by Book Club Salida in partnership with Salida High School.
Big Read Book Addiction Flier (1).jpg
Monday, September 7 Labor Day, and there will be no school.
Parent Teacher Conferences will be held Wednesday, September 23 5:00PM -7:00 PM
Homecoming September 14-19
Mon. Sep. 14
Standard Assembly Schedule
1:30 Assembly (SHS Gym)
6:30 Peach Fuzz Volleyball (SHS Gym)
Tues. Sep. 15
6:30 Soccer Vs. Canon City (Spartan Stadium)
Wed. Sep. 16
Float Building Schedule
4:30 Parade
6:00 Powderpuff and Tailgate (Spartan Stadium)
Thurs. Sep. 17
6:30 Volleyball Vs. Banning Lewis (SHS Gym)
Fri. Sep. 18
7:00 Football Vs. Bennett (Spartan Stadium)
Sat. Sep 19
8:00-10:00 Dance SHS Commons
If your student wants to bring a date who does not go to Salida High School, they must get a form from the front office and return it by Wednesday, September 17. As a reminder:
Current SHS students may only bring 1 guest
Guests must be recent SHS alumni or currently enrolled in a High School or Post-Secondary School
No guest 21 or older will be permitted to attend
No middle school students will be permitted to attend
HEA students do not need a dance form and may attend
Gooooo Spartans! Principal Jesse Hull
The track and field at Salida High School are closed to all use today, Wednesday, August 26, to paint lines on the recently resurfaced track. We anticipate the track will be reopened for programming tomorrow, Thursday, August 27. We appreciate your patience.
Please welcome new staff at Salida High School.
Hayden Barnard — Social Studies Teacher
Please join us in welcoming Hayden Barnard to Salida High School as our new Social Studies teacher. Hayden earned a B.S. in Education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and is licensed to teach in Colorado. He previously served as a paraprofessional in Salida High School’s Special Education Department and brings experience in inclusive education and elementary classrooms. Hayden has also worked as a mountain guide in the Arkansas Valley and is excited to continue serving the Salida community.
Calvin Drinnen — Physical Education Teacher
Please join us in welcoming Calvin Drinnen to Salida High School as our new Physical Education teacher. Calvin brings nearly a decade of K–12 experience in physical education and health. He earned his M.A.T. from the University of Central Arkansas and has been recognized as Teacher of the Month, Staff Member of the Month, and a Good Apple Award recipient. A former collegiate baseball player, Calvin continues to coach and will serve as the SMS Head Football Coach this year. We are excited to welcome him to the Spartan family!
Nathan Gross — Math Teacher
Please join us in welcoming Nathan Gross to Salida High School as our new Math teacher. Nathan brings nearly a decade of experience teaching middle and secondary mathematics in Colorado. He holds a master's degree in Secondary Teaching and a bachelor's degree in Economics. Most recently, he taught at Cotopaxi Consolidated Schools and previously spent eight years at Brentwood Middle School in Greeley. Nathan also has extensive coaching experience and will serve as the SHS Assistant Wrestling Coach this year.
Dean Haakenson — Social Studies Teacher
Please join us in welcoming Dean Haakenson to Salida High School as our new Social Studies teacher. Dean brings more than 25 years of experience teaching social studies in Colorado. He holds degrees from the University of Colorado Boulder and is pursuing a master's degree in Geography. He has taught AP Human Geography, U.S. History, Government, Geography, and Current Issues and has served as a College Board AP Human Geography Exam Reader. Dean also brings extensive experience leading wilderness programs with Colorado Outward Bound and is excited to join the Salida community.
Diane Harris — Math Teacher
Please join us in welcoming Diane Harris to Salida High School as our new Math teacher. Diane has already made an impact in the Salida School District as a substitute teacher and paraprofessional at Salida Middle School. She holds a bachelor's degree in Biology and Environmental Studies from Calvin University and is completing her teaching licensure through Colorado Mountain College. Her background in science, education, and hands-on learning makes her a wonderful addition to the Salida High School team.
Nicole McHenry — Math Teacher
Please join us in welcoming Nicole McHenry to Salida High School as our new Math teacher. Nicole brings more than 13 years of secondary education experience, including 11 years teaching high school mathematics and two years as an instructional coach. She holds degrees in Mathematics and Secondary Mathematics Education and has taught courses ranging from Geometry to Pre-Calculus and IB Mathematics. Nicole has also coached girls' soccer and received a Colorado Council of Teachers of Mathematics Leadership Award. We are excited to welcome her to Salida High School.
Jude Wilburn — Social Studies Teacher
Please join us in welcoming Jude Wilburn to Salida High School as our new Social Studies teacher. Jude recently earned his degree in Secondary Education with a Social Studies Broadfield emphasis from Montana State University. During his student teaching, he taught AP World History and World Geography and gained additional experience at the middle school level. Jude has also worked extensively with youth through after-school and summer programs and enjoys coaching youth basketball. We are excited to welcome his energy and dedication to the Spartan community.
Hello Spartan Students, Parents, and Guardians,
It was a great first 2 days at Salida High School.
Back To School Night: Monday, August 17, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
We look forward to seeing all the parents. This will be an opportunity to meet with your student’s teacher, ask questions, and hear a general overview of courses. The Spartan Booster Club is hosting a BBQ starting at 5:00 PM for all attendees. Below is the schedule:
5:00 Booster Club Begins to Serve Food
5:20 Address by Principal Hull, AP Cooksey, AD Hilbig
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM: Parents visiting teachers in their classrooms
Salida Schools Safety/Security Protocol Seminar: Monday, August 17, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, SHS Auditorium.
Reunification Drill: Tuesday, August 25
Reunification is the process by which students are reunited with their parents after an incident or emergency. On this day, students in grades 10, 11, and 12 will be released at 2:00 PM. Buses will run their normal routes for those students.
For our 9th graders, parents or someone on their emergency contact list will need to pick them up. At approximately 2:30 PM, an app message will go out to 9th-grade parents or guardians letting them know they should come to the school to pick up their child. At this point, the guardian or an emergency contact listed in Infinite Campus should come to the front of the high school with ID to pick up their students.
I appreciate everyone working with us on this drill. We frequently conduct evacuation and lockdown drills within our building, but it is imperative that staff and parents also know how to perform a reunification. If an emergency should ever happen, we want to get our students back to those who love and care for them as fast as possible.
Salida Mountain Bike Team Fundraiser for Chaffee County Search and Rescue
Big Read Book Club:
You are invited to join the SHS Big Read Book Club meeting! Join us for a community book club for parents, teachers, and community members discussing Addiction Inoculation by Jessica Lahey, presented by Book Club Salida in partnership with Salida High School.
Big Read Book Addiction I Flier (1).jpg
Monday, September 7 Labor Day, and there will be no school.
Parent Teacher Conferences will be held Wednesday, September 23 5:00PM -7:00 PM
Please email me, call, or make a meeting with me if you have any questions or concerns as your student is starting the year. We want to ensure that all students feel comfortable and safe and all parents are heard.
Have a great Spartan Weekend!
Sincerely,
Principal Jesse Hull
(719) 530-5411
Hello SHS Parents,
As we gear up for the 2026-2027 school year we encourage students to register for fall sports this week. For registration and physical requirements, visit our SHS Activities page.
Please note that athletes will not be allowed to participate in training without first completing registration and submitting a physical.
Sport Physical Night for ALL SHS and SMS athletes
Monday August 3rd from 6:00-8:00 PM, at Summit Middle School Gym
Cost is $10 per student, parent/guardian must be present
Chaffee County Public Health will be at Sports Physical Night giving vaccinations. We have vaccinations for those who are insured or uninsured. If you have insurance, please bring your card with you. Children under 18 will need to have a parent with them, or a parent willing to give verbal permission over the phone. If you have old vaccination records from another state that may not be in the state immunization system, please bring those with you. We will have all adolescent vaccinations available, including MMR. If you have any questions about your child's immunization needs before the event, please call Public Health at 719-539-4510 and ask for Tanya. Vaccines available we will be Tdap, Hepatitis A and B, Meningococcal ACWY, Meningococcal B (only for those 16 and older), HPV, MMR, Polio
Below are some dates to kick off this exciting 2026-2027 Fall Season:
SHS Spartan Football
August 3rd -7th 8:00 am - 10:00 am Regular Season Practice
SHS Spartan Golf 2026
August 3rd 4:30 pm - 6:00 pm Introductions on the putting green (First Official Practice)
August 4th 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm 6 Hole qualifier
August 6th 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Green etiquette
August 7th 2:00 pm - Bag and polo check out, early season team picture
SHS Spartan Boys Soccer Fall 2026
Week of August 3rd 4:30 pm -7:45 pm each day physical/break/tactical
Week of August 10th 4:45 pm -6:45 pm each day at Ben Oswald Park (First Official Practice)
SHS Spartan Mountain Bike Club
August 5th 5:30 pm Parent Meeting
August 8th and 9th Official fall team event/local campout
August 11th-13th 4:40 pm Regular weekly practice at Riverside Park
(please reach out to SalidaRacing@gmail.com for details and new athlete requirements)
SHS Spartan Girls Volleyball
August 5th - 7th 1:00 pm -6:00 pm. Preseason conditioning
August 10th & 11th 7:00 am -9:00 am and 4:30-6:30pm Practice both days
Start of School - Practice after school each day and a morning practice on Fridays
SHS Spartan Cross Country
July 20th - August 7th 7:15 am Cross Country workout
And keep an eye out for upcoming communication regarding fall theater production tryouts.
We look forward to a successful 2026-2027 year, Go Spartans!
Talai Shirey
Salida High School
Activities Secretary
719-530-5406
I hope everyone had an enjoyable summer. We are excited for another school year at Salida High School.
Welcome New Staff Members!
Please join us in welcoming new teachers to our team:
Hayden Barnard- Social Studies Teacher
Calvin Drinnen- Physical Education Teacher
Nathan Gross - Math Teacher
Nicole McHenry- Math Teacher
Jude Wilburn- Social Studies Teacher
Dean Haakenson- Social Studies Teacher
Crystal Knight- Special Education Para Professional Educator
Annual Information Update
To streamline registration, please update your student's information in the Infinite Campus Portal before in-person registration. If you need assistance accessing the portal, please click here.
In-Person Registration: Tuesday, August 4th (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Registration will be scheduled as follows:
Seniors: 9:00 - 10:00 AM
Juniors: 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Sophomores: 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Freshmen: 2:00 - 3:00 PM
We understand that some families may still be out of town during this time. Please plan on attending this important day if your family is in town. If you are unable to attend, please contact the front office (719) 530-5401 or (719) 530-5402 to discuss registration information.
In-Person Registration will include:
Help with the Annual Update and completing SHS online school forms (if not done already).
Receiving Final Schedules from School Counselors.
Availability of the School Nurse for questions and student health concerns.
Representatives from Colorado Mountain College will assist with concurrent enrollment classes.
School Pictures
for student IDs (optional picture purchases available, forms at registration; retakes tentatively scheduled for September 3, 2026).Locker Assignments
Lockers are optional for Seniors and Juniors, but mandatory for all Sophomores and Freshmen. The cost is $10.00.School Fees: including locker fees, please bring a check or cash.
Athletic Director (sports fees and information)
Food Service:
A representative will be present to help with eligibility paperwork, concerns, and questions.Salida Spartan Athletic Booster Club:
Membership sign-up (supporting student activities through fundraising and Spartan gear sales).Library Chrome Book check out.
Door Prizes!
Enjoy fabulous door prizes from Chill and Moonlight Pizza.
CMC Early Start Date August 10
For Fall 2026 - CMC classes that are NOT taught at the high school will be starting the week of August 10th. Classes that meet on Monday/Wednesday will start August 10th and classes that meet Tuesday/Thursday will start August 11th in the Kesner building. Online classes will post their first assignment(s) on August 10th. It is ESSENTIAL that you attend this first class (or log on to your online class and complete the first assignment) as you could be dropped and lose your seat if you miss.
CMC US History will now be taught in the Kesner building taught by Ms. Gwaltney will start on August 10.
All CMC classes that are taught at SHS will align with the beginning of the SHS school year - no action needed.
Also note - students must be enrolled in a CMC class before the class begins therefore there will not be an opportunity to add CMC classes for fall semester after August 10th.
Important Dates to Remember
Athletic Physical Night:
Monday, August 3rd, Salida Middle School (6:00-8:00In-Person Registration:
Tuesday, August 4th (9:00 AM-3:00 PM)Freshman Orientation Day:
Tuesday, August 11th (7:50 AM - 12:00 PM, breakfast provided)New to the District Student Orientation (Grades 10-12):
Tuesday, August 11th (9:00 - 10:00 AM)First Day of School:
Wednesday, August 12th (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, all students)Back to School Night:
Monday, August 17th (5:00 - 7:00 PM, dinner provided by SHS Booster Club)Reunification Drill: (9th grade only)
Tuesday, August 25th (2:00 PM)Parent/Teacher Conferences:
Wednesday, September 23rd (5:00 - 7:00 PM)Homecoming Week:
September 14th-19thSHS Sports Registration:
Please register your athlete online before fall sports start via Arbiter: https://students.arbitersports.com/organizations/salida-school-district
Sincerely,
Principal Jesse Hull
Salida High School
Salida School District R-32-J
719-530-5411
Concurrent Enrollment News - CMC Early Start Date
For Fall 2026 - CMC classes that are NOT taught at the high school will be starting the week of August 10th. This means if you have a CMC online class or an in-person class at Kesner, your first class will start BEFORE SHS/HEA start on August 12th. Classes that meet on Monday/Wednesday will start August 10th and classes that meet Tuesday/Thursday will start August 11th. Online classes will post their Canvas page with their first assignment(s) on August 10th. It is ESSENTIAL that you attend this first class (or log on to your online class and complete the first assignment) as you could be dropped and lose your seat if you miss. Please make a note of these start dates and add them to your calendar.
All CMC classes that are taught at SHS will align with the beginning of the SHS school year - no action needed.
Also note - students must be enrolled in a CMC class before the class begins therefore there will not be an opportunity to add CMC classes for fall semester after August 10th.
UPDATE July 7, 2026: Both the track and the field at Holman are open again for program and community use.
UPDATE July 1, 2026: Because of the extreme wind this week, the timeline for this project was extended. The track will reopen for program and community use on Monday, July 6. Also note that the fields on Holman are closed for annual routine turf maintenance and a needed recovery period. We will post here when they are re-opened for program and community use.
The SHS Track and Field will be closed for maintenance to resurface the track from June 15-30, with a planned reopening on July 1. During this time, the turf and track will be closed for all athletic practices and any community use.
All scheduled athletic practices normally held on the turf field will shift to the Kesner field.
The resurfacing project is a planned routine project to maintain the quality of the facilities and resources available to our students, staff, and community. The District looks forward to the completion of this project and being able to open facility with refreshed track surfaces. Any updates or changes to that schedule will be posted on the SHS website and calendar.
Welcome New Salida High School Staff Members!
Please join us in welcoming new teachers to our team:
Hayden Barnard- Social Studies Teacher
Calvin Drinnen- Physical Education Teacher
Nathan Gross - Math Teacher
Nicole McHenry- Math Teacher
Jude Wilburn- Social Studies Teacher
Annual Information Update
To streamline registration, please update your student's information in the Infinite Campus Portal before in-person registration. If you need assistance accessing the portal, please click here.
In-Person Registration: Tuesday, August 4th (9:00 AM - 3:00 PM)
Registration will be scheduled as follows:
Seniors: 9:00 - 10:00 AM
Juniors: 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Sophomores: 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Freshmen: 2:00 - 3:00 PM
In-Person Registration will include:
Help with the Annual Update and completing SHS online school forms (if not done already).
Receiving Final Schedules from School Counselors.
Availability of the School Nurse for questions and student health concerns.
Representatives from Colorado Mountain College will assist with concurrent enrollment classes.
School Pictures
for student IDs (optional picture purchases available, forms at registration; retakes tentatively scheduled for September 3, 2026).Locker Assignments
Lockers are optional for Seniors and Juniors, but mandatory for all Sophomores and Freshmen. The cost is $10.00.School Fees: including locker fees, please bring a check or cash.
Athletic Director (sports fees and information)
Food Service:
A representative will be present to help with eligibility paperwork, concerns, and questions.Salida Spartan Athletic Booster Club:
Membership sign-up (supporting student activities through fundraising and Spartan gear sales).Library Chrome Book check out.
Door Prizes!
Enjoy fabulous door prizes from Chill and Moonlight Pizza.
CMC Early Start Date
For Fall 2026 - CMC classes that are NOT taught at the high school will be starting the week of August 10th. This means if you have a CMC online class or an in-person class at Kesner, your first class will start BEFORE SHS starts on August 12th. Classes that meet on Monday/Wednesday will start August 10th and classes that meet Tuesday/Thursday will start August 11th. Online classes will post their first assignment(s) on August 10th. It is ESSENTIAL that you attend this first class (or log on to your online class and complete the first assignment) as you could be dropped and lose your seat if you miss. Please make a note of these start dates and add them to your calendar.
All CMC classes that are taught at SHS will align with the beginning of the SHS school year - no action needed.
Also note - students must be enrolled in a CMC class before the class begins therefore there will not be an opportunity to add CMC classes for fall semester after August 10th.
Important Dates to Remember
Athletic Physical Night:
Monday, August 3rd, Salida Middle School (6:00-8:00In-Person Registration:
Tuesday, August 4th (9:00 AM-3:00 PM)Freshman Orientation Day:
Tuesday, August 11th (7:50 AM - 12:00 PM, breakfast provided)New to the District Student Orientation (Grades 10-12):
Tuesday, August 11th (9:00 - 10:00 AM)First Day of School:
Wednesday, August 12th (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, all students)Back to School Night:
Monday, August 17th (5:00 - 7:00 PM, dinner provided by SHS Booster Club)Reunification Drill: (9th grade only)
Tuesday, August 25th (2:00 PM)Parent/Teacher Conferences:
Wednesday, September 23rd (5:00 - 7:00 PM)Homecoming Week:
September 14th-19thSHS Sports Registration:
Please register your athlete online before fall sports start via Arbiter: https://students.arbitersports.com/organizations/salida-school-district
Sincerely,
Principal Jesse Hull
Salida Spartan Athletes - SHS is offering a free strength and conditioning program over the summer open to all Salida Schools' high school athletes. Strength and conditioning coach Paul Mickelbart will host athletes from 7-9 a.m. Mondays through Thursday in the weight room at SHS. Athletes need to be at the back door by the gyms a little before 7 a.m. dressed and ready to train.
Our student athletes work hard during their seasons and off season training gives an edge to those who participate. Athletes who join in make gains towards getting stronger, faster, and gain confidence and are better prepared when their season rolls around.
We encourage all athletes to take advantage of this program and hope coaches encourage their athletes to participate.
Jeremy Grier
Interim AD
Salida Schools
Dear Parents, Students, and Guardians,
Shout Outs
Congratulations to the SHS Jazz Band for placing 2nd in the 1A Class at the Blossom Festival Jazz Band Competition on May 1!
Congratulations to the Salida High School Tennis Team for earning 5th place at the State Tournament this past weekend!
Best of luck to our Salida High School Track athletes as they compete in the State Championships this weekend!
Scholarship Night
Monday, May 11, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Salida SteamPlant Theater and Event Center
Student recipients should report at 5:30 PM.
School Board Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 6:00 PM
627 Oak Street
Important Schedule Reminder
Please note that school will begin at 9:00 AM on Wednesday, May 20 to accommodate the Senior Breakfast.
Salida High School Announces New Head Basketball Coach
We are pleased to announce that Mike Lamond has been named the new Head Basketball Coach at Salida High School for the 2026–2027 season.
Coach Lamond brings more than two decades of experience as both an educator and coach across Colorado and beyond. Currently a teacher at Salida Middle School, he has been part of the Salida school community since 2020, teaching language arts while also coaching middle school cross country and boys basketball.
His extensive coaching background includes serving as Head Boys Basketball Coach at Lake County High School, along with coaching roles in Sheridan, Denver, Alaska, and California. Throughout his career, Coach Lamond has emphasized fundamentals, teamwork, and strong character development.
Extraordinary Teen Council Field Night
Wednesday, May 13
The Extraordinary Teen Council (ETC) will host activities during the Spikeball Tournament, including:
Free snacks and hacky sacks
Trike races with gift card prizes
Interactive games and activities
Impairment-simulation goggles activities
We encourage students to come out and participate in the fun!
Summer School
Salida High School will offer a Summer School credit-recovery program designed to help students get back on track for graduation.
2526 Summer School Advertisement
Senior Library Checkout
Important Senior Dates
Monday, May 11
Scholarship Night
6:00 PM – 8:30 PM | SteamPlant
(Recipients report at 5:30 PM)
Monday, May 18
Regular Day of School
Tuesday, May 19
Graduation Practice
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Gym
(Seniors attend classes afterward)
Wednesday, May 20
Senior Breakfast
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Gym
Graduates, high school staff, parents, and VIPs are invited. Parents may create tri-fold photo boards for display, and graduates may invite one guest (“plus one”).
Final Exams
9:05 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday, May 21
Last Day of School / Final Exams
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday, May 22
Last Day for Teachers
Graduation Practice on the Field
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Saturday, May 23
Graduation Ceremony
Graduates report to the HS Gym at 8:15 AM
Ceremony begins at 9:00 AM on the field
Caps and gowns are required
Decorated caps are permitted if appropriate
Principal Jesse Hull
This year the Salida School District Board of Education approved DI (Destination Imagination) as an approved district activity. There will be a summer camp July 30 and 31 where students in 3rd grade and older can try a sampler of what DI is all about. This will be a consolidated version of a DI challenge run by DI Volunteers from around the state of Colorado.
The cost is $40 and spaces are limited. Scholarships are available.
Please reach out to Amy at aguldan@salidaschools.org with questions.
SHS Boys Basketball is offering off-season opportunities.
April 13, 20, 22, 29 - Open gym, 5-7 pm
May 4, 6, 11, 13 - Open gym, 5-7 pm
May 29, 30 - Byers-Strasburg tournament
June 2, 4, 16, 18, 23 - Open gym, 4-6 pm
June 8,-10 - Colorado Mesa Team Camp
June 19-21 - Western Team Camp
June 25-29 - Colorado Scholastic Showcase
July 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 - Open gym 4-6 pm
Reach out to AD Jeremy Grier with any questions.
SALIDA HIGH CHEER – IT’S GO TIME!
Calling all rising 9th–12th graders ready to bring the energy, spirit, and power to Salida High Cheer! Whether you’re looking to hit the sidelines for football or basketball or take the floor with our competition team, it all starts here
MAY 12 – MANDATORY PARENT MEETING
No meeting = no participation.
If you want in, your parent/guardian must attend. This is your official first step—don’t miss it!
MAY 13 & 15 – OPEN GYMS
Let’s get to work
These optional (but highly recommended) sessions are where you’ll learn the cheers + band chant for tryouts. Show up, get ahead, and start building your confidence!
MAY 16 – COMPETITION TRYOUTS
Time to shine
This tryout is required for anyone wanting to be on the competition team this fall. We’ll use scores to:
Help select 1 of 2 captains
Start shaping and choreographing our routines
NO CUTS! Everyone who tries out will be part of the team—this is your chance to grow, lead, and compete.
Dear Parents, Students, and Guardians,
A big thank you to Haley Hume and our STUCO leaders! The "Think Fast" assembly was an engaging and effective way to remind our students about the importance of safe driving.
Salida High School National Honor Society Blood Drive
Monday, May 4 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Our National Honor Society students are hosting a Red Cross Blood Drive at the high school and would greatly appreciate your participation. Please see the attached informational letter for more details.
Please note that donors must be at least 16 years old. Students who are 16 require a signed Parent Permission Slip (English / Spanish). Donors aged 17 and older do not require parent permission.
SHS & SMS Band Concert
Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the SHS Auditorium
5:00 PM: SMS 5th Grade Band & Level 1 Band (Student call time: 4:30 PM)
6:30 PM: SHS Concert Band & Jazz Band
Scholarship Night
Monday, May 11, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Salida SteamPlant Theater and Event Center (Student recipients call time: 5:30 PM)
School Board Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | 6:00 PM
627 Oak Street
Please Note: School will begin at 9:00 AM on May 20th to accommodate the Senior Breakfast.
Salida High School will be offering a Summer School credit-recovery program designed to help students get back on track for graduation.
2526 Summer School Advertisement
Family Youth Initiative
Your Voice Matters!
As part of our Family & Youth Initiatives (FYI), the Listen Longer Campaign wants to hear from you! Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and help shape our future initiatives.
Deadline: May 15
https://forms.gle/R7VFQBPRnvW8PwKU9
Senior Library Check Out
Important Senior Dates
May 11th: Scholarship Night — 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Steamplant (Recipients report at 5:30 PM)
May 18th: Regular Day of School
May 19th: Graduation Practice — 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM, Gym (Seniors attend classes afterward)
May 20th:
Senior Breakfast — 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM, Gym (Graduates, HS staff, parents, and VIPs invited. Parents may create tri-fold photo boards for display. Graduates can invite a "plus one.")
Final Exams — 9:05 AM - 4:00 PM
May 21st: Last Day of School (Final Exams) — 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
May 22nd: Last Day for Teachers; Graduation Practice on the Field — 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
May 23rd: Graduation Ceremony
Graduates report to the HS Gym at 8:15 AM.
Ceremony starts at 9:00 AM on the field.
All graduates must have caps and gowns, and decorated caps are permitted (appropriately).
Scholarship Reminders
We strongly encourage all seniors to complete their scholarship applications. You can view the regularly updated list below:
Please check the regularly updated list here: Local Scholarships Spreadsheet
Have a good weekend!
Principal Jesse Hull