The leadership team has received the honorary status of National Gold Council of Excellence for the past five years because of the direction and leadership of Garland, the release said.

Last year, the Durango High School Student Leadership Team was selected to host the Colorado Student Leadership Conference, a statewide conference that brought over 500 students to Durango.

Garland also teaches social studies full time, founded and sponsors the Durango High School Scuba Club and cosponsors the Durango High School Ski Club.

[email protected]