On February 1st, I marked one year as President & CEO of the Denver Public Schools Foundation. This milestone comes with immense pride in all we have accomplished, yet it has also been a time of deep reflection. The week leading up to this anniversary was a rollercoaster—what should have been celebratory was clouded by concerns over the federal funding freeze, threats against students who identify differently than the mainstream, and the fear that many immigrant families face daily when sending their children to school.
Despite this uncertainty, my commitment to the priorities I set a year ago remains steadfast: supporting our students, families, and educators. At the DPS Foundation, we believe students’ educational outcomes are just as important as their emotional, social, and physical well-being, and our investments reflect that value. Every student and every classroom across the DPS district deserves access to the tools, resources, and opportunities that promote success. The diversity of our district and city should be celebrated.
Over the past year, our investments have demonstrated this commitment:
- We have raised and directed more than $455,000 to the DPS Foundation New Arrivals Fund in 2024, supporting schools that have welcomed students new to the country. We communicate regularly with our schools to ensure the funds we raise meet students’ needs. Educators continue to share that their highest priority needs are classroom resources so students can focus on learning, regardless of external challenges.
- We have continued investing in Afterschool Programs, ensuring students have access to a safe and welcoming environment beyond school hours, alleviating financial and logistical burdens for families.
- We remain committed to supporting DPS educators through various efforts such as our Educators Take Flight Program with United Airlines, where teachers access travel for professional development opportunities. Additionally, our Educator Housing Program has placed 15 teachers in rent-free housing through partnerships with local developers, supporting the recruitment and retention of high-quality educators in Denver.
- Our Community Hubs, in partnership with organizations like the Food Bank of the Rockies, are ensuring families have access to essential resources that go beyond the classroom.
Public education is the only institution that can serve young people at scale. Denver Public Schools serves the largest student population in Colorado, and by focusing on their needs, success, and well-being, we create a unique and powerful impact. These students are our future workforce—our front-line workers, innovators, leaders, and community contributors. Ensuring they have the tools to flourish is a shared responsibility and we will continue to do our part to ensure DPS is a safe and welcoming place for our students.
I want every student to know: there are adults in this city who see you, care about you, and will fight for the future you deserve—no matter where you were born, your gender identity, your ability, or your zip code.
Whatever does or does not change at the federal level for education, one thing is certain: the DPS Foundation will remain committed to filling funding gaps and providing direct resources to Denver Public Schools students, families, and educators—because they need us now more than ever. Our ability to be both nimble and visionary allows us to stay true to our purpose and provide meaningful support.
With deep gratitude, I want to acknowledge that none of this work would be possible without the people who make it happen every day. To my incredible staff team, your passion and dedication inspire me. To our donors and partners, your belief in public education and generosity fuel the programs and initiatives that change lives. To my Board of Directors, your guidance and commitment make our vision a reality. And to the teachers, educators and administrators who are doing the most important work everyday – thank you for investing your time and talent into our students.
This first year as CEO has been one of the greatest honors of my career. I love this work. I love this city. And I am more committed than ever to making a difference. Thank you for your trust, your support, and for standing with us in the fight for a stronger future for every DPS student.
Our students cannot wait, and neither will we.
Sara Hazel
DPS Foundation President & CEO
P.S. While we don’t typically use these messages to ask for donations, I want you to know that if you feel inspired to give, your donation will go directly toward ensuring ALL DPS students have access to the resources, opportunities, and support they need to thrive. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a real impact.
