Editor:
Concerning the new high school building, I agree that we need to update in order to accommodate new technologies, excitement for 21st century education and to be rid of the many problems with the present facility. The present location would be great in the future for an elementary school that could replace both Manaugh and Mesa schools, which have problems of their own.
My main concern is the proposed architecture as shown in the newspaper article of Oct. 11. I like that it reflects a Southwest design which is so native to Cortez, however, it doesnt look very hospitable and that is part of what this area is known for. Now I havent seen the floor plans or the interior designs, but the exterior looks more like a fort, a stockade or a prison facility than a school. Have you consulted with the Native Americans? I understand that a complaint of the City Market building was that it looked too much like a fort.
There are lots of beautiful and inviting Southwest designs that are much more welcoming to the diverse population of this area. How about some curves? Curved windows and doorways are always more inviting. Maybe it could have an exterior courtyard or plaza even a xeriscape plan with native plants that would take less water. Maybe it could have the adobe look with beams extending out such as in both Native American and Mexican architecture. I would also ask, how does this plan take into consideration both the great view and backdrop of Mesa Verde and the Ute Mountain?
At any rate, I think the exterior look needs to go back to the drawing board with instructions that we do not want our high school to look like a white mans version of an Indian school. Rather, it should reflect the Southwestern hospitality of fiestas, pow wows, rendezvous and rodeos.
Dont get me wrong, I believe we truly need a new high school, but lets make sure it is for ALL of our students something we can all be proud of. Lets make it exciting!
Cheryl Holdorf
Cortez
Via CortezJournal.com
Editors note: No architectural design has been proposed and no drawings have been generated. No money will be spent on design until the bond issue passes. At that time, public meetings will be held to gather input both on appearance and on functional elements.