With deep appreciation and gratitude, I am sharing that both of our leaders at Pagosa Springs High School, Principal Sean O’Donnell and Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Chantelle Jordan, have announced that they will retire at the end of this school year.
Together, they have contributed more than 50 years working in the Archuleta School District, helping students and staff in countless ways.
Sean’s connection to Pagosa Springs High School runs deep. He began his career here 28 years ago as a math teacher. In addition to teaching, he coached football, basketball, and track, investing countless hours in mentoring students both in and out of the classroom. In 2005, he stepped into the role of Assistant Principal, and in 2013, he became Principal, where he has led the school with a student-first approach.
Throughout his tenure, Sean has been committed to ensuring all students have the opportunity to achieve academically and socially. He has supported and expanded Career and Technical Education and student organizations such as HOSA, FBLA, and FFA, while working alongside staff to introduce new, high-interest electives. The impact he has had on generations of students, staff, and families is significant and lasting.
In announcing his retirement, Sean shared: “I am deeply honored to have dedicated my entire career to PSHS. The colleagues I’ve had the privilege of working alongside have shaped me in ways I’ll carry long after I leave these halls. Visitors consistently remarked on the exceptional character of our students — and I always agreed without hesitation. The students of ASD are a testament to what this community stands for: excellence, heart, and potential. I step into the next chapter filled with immense pride and genuine optimism for the future of PSHS and every student in ASD.”
Chantelle’s career with Archuleta School District spans 25 years. She began her career in education teaching 5th grade at Pagosa Springs Intermediate School, where she spent 10 years in the classroom. She then served the district in a variety of leadership roles, including Gifted and Talented Coordinator, and elementary assistant principal. For the 2021–22 school year, she stepped into the role of Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Pagosa Springs High School. Throughout her career, Chantelle has been passionate about supporting teachers to ensure all students get what they need, bringing a student-centered and collaborative approach to her work.
“I am filled with gratitude for the administration, staff, and the incredible community that make Pagosa Springs Schools so special. But my greatest thanks go to the students— thank you for allowing me to be a part of your educational journeys. You have been my inspiration, my purpose, and the most rewarding part of it all,” Chantelle reflected.
With this announcement, we will begin a thoughtful and inclusive process to identify the next leaders of Pagosa Springs High School. Dates and details will be released after spring break. Learn about ASD’s hiring process for leaders here. As always, we will involve staff, students, and community members to ensure we find the next leadership team who will build on the strong foundation Sean and Chantelle have helped create.
Please join me in thanking both Sean and Chantelle for their decades of service, leadership, and commitment to our students and community.
With gratitude,
Rick Holt
Superintendent
Archuleta School District