Mission
The Durango Education Foundation (D.E.F.) is a community organization of dedicated volunteers and paid staff, who together cultivate life-changing academic learning opportunities for Pre-K through Grade 12 students in Durango School District 9-R, and provide resources that positively impact the educational experience of the 9-R community.
Colorado school funding has consistently decreased year after year directly impacting per-pupil funding. DEF has been here for Durango School District 9-R teachers and students in the best of times and in the toughest. Our children must be ready to go forward as young adults equipped with the knowledge, appetite for learning, adaptability, and character to thrive in a world where change is the norm.
DEF is committed to helping Durango School District 9-R meet these challenges for our children because a robust education system brings economic, ethical, and cultural health to the entire community, and to our society as a whole.
History
Founded in 1984 as a single scholarship fund*, The Durango Education Foundation (D.E.F.) has developed through wise stewardship into a valued resource for Durango School District 9-R. Pre-K through grade 12 teachers, as well as school staff and administrators, receive D.E.F. encouragement and support for programs, materials, and technology needs outside the capacity of the regular district budget. Please visit our What We Do page for a more in-depth look at what D.E.F. does in our community.
WE WORK TIRELESSLY TO HELP 9-R STUDENTS TO THRIVE YEAR AFTER YEAR.
The Foundation's paramount intention is to encourage innovation, achievement, and excellence in all academic areas and levels of District 9-R education. Scholarships remain an important element in the Foundation's work as well. D.E.F. administers 7-10 scholarships per year, awarded to graduating seniors from any of the Durango 9R high school programs.
We all agree that good schools, adequately funded, attract people, businesses and investments to the community, enhancing the economic well-being of everyone.
THE FOUNDATION IS A VALUED PARTNER OF DURANGO SCHOOL DISTRICT 9-R BUT IS A WHOLLY INDEPENDENT 501(C)3 CHARITABLE NON-PROFIT.
* The Foundation was initially known as the Durango Foundation for Educational Excellence. The name was changed in October 2013 to more accurately express the Foundation's mission to serve all academic areas of Durango School District 9-R. The IRS confirmation letter is available on our governance page.