MONTE VISTA —  After less than a year in her position, Andrea “Ande” Davis, Superintendent of Sargent School District, turned in her resignation to the Sargent Board of Education earlier this week. 

When asked why, after the district performed so well on the Student Centered Accountability Program and only a year into her tenure, she was leaving, Ms. Davis responded to the Valley Courier with a statement. 

“My decision to resign was made after careful consideration and is based on personal and professional factors. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Sargent School District and I am proud of what has been accomplished this year.  

“I wish the district continued success in serving Sargent students and the community. I look forward to a smooth transition of leadership to a new superintendent for the 2025-2026 school year.” 

Clay Mitchell, president of the Sargent School District Board of Education confirmed that, Superintendent Davis’ resignation was approved by the board at the March 24 regular school board meeting. “She will complete this school year and is supporting a smooth transition,” Mitchell wrote.   

“[Superintendent Davis] has done great things during her time at Sargent,” Mitchell wrote.  “Her work and guidance on our Strategic Plan, Facilities Plan, Policy Overhaul, and Student Centered Accountability Program this past year will continue to positively impact the district for years to come.  Many of our staff appreciated her leadership and we wish her the best of luck in the future.”   

Sargent’s K-12 principal, Michelle Shelley-David, decided to retire this year, as well, leaving vacant the two top leadership positions in the district.  

When asked if her decision to retire was tied in any way to the superintendent’s resignation, Mitchell confirmed the principal’s retirement, further saying, “The reasons for the decision are unknown, but the Board is appreciative of her 30 plus years and dedication to the District and for the students she inspired.” 

Not counting interims, Davis is the second person to have served as Sargent School District superintendent in less than five years. When asked what, as board president, Mitchell thought might be causing the turnover and what can be done to improve retention, Mitchell wrote, “The State of Colorado is facing critical shortages in all facets of education. Rural districts are particularly susceptible to the hardships faced by the state.  With that, the Sargent School Board does not see that as an excuse, but will continue to work with administrators, teachers, and surrounding districts that face the same challenges, to address the larger issue that is critical shortage.   

“The Sargent School District has a long history of successes within our close community.  We look forward to continuing to provide a first-class education for our students and prepare them to be well-rounded and successful members of our society, as we have for the past century.” 

According to publicschoolreview.com, there are three public schools in Sargent School District No. re-33j with a student population totaling 297 students for the 2024-2025 school year. The district is located in Monte Vista in Rio Grande County.