$1 Million Fund
The $1 Million Fund was launched in 2020 and was made possible by unrestricted donations from generous donors who trusted us to allocate their contributions effectively. This fund reflects the DPS Foundation’s mission: with collective effort and donor backing, our students and city will thrive.
This initiative aimed to provide our dedicated educators with the space and financial support needed to develop collaborative solutions, nurturing the next generation of Denver’s leaders. Partnering with Denver Public Schools, the DPS Foundation combined community resources with district expertise to empower those closest to our students—educators, families, and community members—to create and implement innovative solutions addressing long-standing inequities.
Awardees
Every dollar, whether $10 or $1,000, was crucial in making this fund a reality. Our goal was to ensure every student graduates prepared for a successful future.
8
schools awarded grants
2,842
students expected to be served
$1,116,680
in grants awarded
Recipient Schools
Academy 360
Bruce Randolph School
Fairview Elementary
Johnson Elementary
McGlone Academy
Monarch Montessori
Palmer Elementary
Respect Academy
Guiding Principles
- Responsibility: We honored the trust our donors placed in us by ensuring their funds were used effectively.
- Flexibility: Our approach was systematic yet adaptable, allowing for responsive and strategic decision-making.
- Learning and Risk-Taking: We embraced the potential for success and failure, taking calculated risks to drive meaningful outcomes.
- Local Expertise: We trusted schools to understand their own needs best and provided them with the flexibility to implement their ideas.
Areas of Focus
Educator Mindsets: Enhancing expectations and student agency, particularly in math and early literacy, with an emphasis on culturally responsive education and equitable practices.
Student Mindsets: Encouraging students to envision a successful future and meet graduation requirements, with increased exposure to post-secondary opportunities.
Family and Community Engagement: Strengthening the role of families and communities in education, aligning with the Aspen Ascend Framework to address both children’s and adults’ needs.
Educator Capacity: Supporting the emotional and physical development of students through training in social-emotional learning, mental health, inclusive practices, restorative justice, and trauma-informed approaches.