Roaring Fork Schools teachers returned Aug. 13 for the 2026-27 school year as they prepare for the first day of classes Thursday.

Over the next week, the RFSD executive team, led by Superintendent Anna Cole, will participate in a districtwide Welcome Back Tour, visiting every school and department to welcome teachers and staff back for the new school year. 

“We are starting the year celebrating major wins from our latest surveys,” Cole said in a district release. “Our educators deeply believe in our students and in their own ability to create rigorous, thriving classrooms. At the same time, families see us moving in the right direction toward higher expectations and personalized support. Combined with our strategic focus, this momentum will drive the system-wide success our students deserve.”

According to the release, results from the 2026 Teaching and Learning Conditions Colorado survey show that RFSD educators had positive perceptions of their working conditions and schools. 

The district outperformed statewide results, most notably with instructional staff. 

Survey results showed 86% favorable responses for “Meeting Diverse Student Needs,” up 6 percentage points from 2024 and 4 points above the statewide result. “Shared Responsibility for Learning” results showed 90% favorable responses, 4 points above the statewide average and up 3 points since 2024. “Supportive Conditions for Learning” had 86% favorable responses, up 4 points since 2024 and 15 points above the statewide average. 

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“These results reflect continued staff confidence in instructional systems that support student learning, collaboration, and equitable access,” the release states.

The district also retained 90% of district and school leaders despite an uncertain financial outlook over the summer. The district also welcomed 25 new teachers this year, compared with 45 in 2025.

“We are really encouraged by the stability of our team heading into this school year,” RFSD Chief of Human Resources and Talent Aimee Brockman said in the release. “We know that teacher quality is directly related to student learning. Students benefit when we keep experienced educators in our communities. As we navigate dynamic enrollment and funding numbers, we continue to prioritize staff retention and well-being.”

In response to declining enrollment, RFSD reduced 21 certified positions this year, with the reductions managed through attrition, including teacher resignations and retirements, according to the release.