Jefferson Foundation News
February 2012 Press Releases
The Jefferson Foundation receives highly selective Social Innovation Fund literacy grant for Jeffco Public Schools
February 29, 2012— Lakewood, CO – The Jefferson Foundation announced today that it is among 11 organizations in Colorado awarded a highly selective Social Innovation Fund grant to advance early childhood literacy. The grant, awarded after a competitive application process, comes through Mile High United Way as part of a statewide movement to strengthen early childhood literacy. The grant will be matched by the Denver-based Salazar Family Foundation, a long-time supporter of The Jefferson Foundation’s literacy programming.
Working with Jeffco Public Schools, the largest school district in Colorado, The Jefferson Foundation will use the grant funds to expand an evidence-based summer literacy program. Initially piloted by the school district in 2011, the summer program proved effective in helping students retain reading and writing skills over the summer months between school years. The expanded program will serve approximately 400 students each year at Swanson, Edgewater, Molholm and Lasley elementary schools. 
“We know that being able to read and write proficiently by third grade is one of the greatest indicators of future academic success,” said Jefferson Foundation Executive Director Katie Tiernan. “The simple fact is that some of our kids need more time, attention and instruction than their peers to become successful readers, and that summer reading loss makes it even harder for them to read at grade level. Offering this opportunity makes sure all our students are prepared for successful futures.”
The program aims to prevent summer reading loss, which can prevent students from becoming proficient readers, among Kindergarten through third grade students at the four schools. The program’s goal is to improve the rate of reading proficiency among third grade students at the four schools by at least 25% in the next four years.
“Mile High United Way received 38 worthy applications for this early literacy grant,” said Mile High United Way President and CEO Christine Benero. “That so many organizations are committed to literacy in Colorado means that kids across the state are going to have more and more opportunities to learn to read. We’re especially excited to work with The Jefferson Foundation and the Colorado United Way network on this literacy movement.”
Mile High United Way announced last October that it had received a $3.6 million grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service to address early literacy. As one of only five organizations around the country to receive an award last year, Mile High United Way utilized an extensive review and interview process involving 60 community and education leaders and hundreds of hours of review. The grants, called Social Innovation Fund grants, require both Mile High United Way and the final recipients to raise matching funds as part of the criteria for accepting a grant.
Other criteria for receiving a grant center on effectiveness and expandability of the funded program. Programs that show demonstrable results in helping kids read and the capacity to expand effectively qualified for funding consideration. The organizations that were awarded grants showed particular success in developing methods and models for working with early literacy.
“We want every third grader to read at grade level. That’s what this movement is all about,” said Benero. “The Social Innovation Fund grants enable us to start at birth and work right through third grade to engage at every stage of literacy learning.”
Bottom Photo: Jeffco Contingent: L to R: Heather Beck (Chief Academic Officer, Jeffco Public Schools) Celeste Sultze (Principal Edgewater Elementary Katie Tiernan (Executive Director, The Jefferson Foundation) Becky Feuerstein (Director, Early Childhood Education) Priscilla Straughn (Executive Director, DLEA) John D’Orazio (Principal, Molholm Elementary) Lola Salazar (President, Salazar Family Foundation) Priscilla Straughn (Executive Director, DLEA) John D’Orazio (Principal, Molholm Elementary) Lola Salazar (President, Salazar Family Foundation)
About The Jefferson Foundation
The Jefferson Foundation is an independent, private 501c3 education foundation supporting Jeffco Public Schools in preparing all students for a successful future. The Jefferson Foundation engages community support and develops important resources for schools, students and families, including more than $9.5 million in support to schools and local community-based organizations since 1983. The Jefferson Foundation was named non-profit of the year by the West Chamber Serving Jefferson County in 2009 and was a finalist for the Colorado Ethics in Business Alliance Good Samaritan Award in 2010 and 2011. For more information, visit www.jeffersonfoundation.org.
About Jeffco Public Schools
Jeffco Public Schools is the largest public school district in Colorado. Its 160 schools serve more than 86,000 students across approximately 780 square miles. Jeffco consistently leads the state with regard to student success and on-time graduation. With 12,000 employees, Jeffco Public Schools is an important economic driver in the Denver area. For more information, please visit www.jeffcopublicschools.org
About the Corporation for National and Community Service
The Corporation for National and Community Service is a federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in service through Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, Learn and Serve America and the Social Innovation Fund, and leads President Obama’s national call to service initiative, United We Serve. For more information, visit www.nationalservice.gov
About Mile High United Way
Mile High United Way is the first United Way in the country. Combining the collective strength of more than 40,000 donors, 800 local businesses, over 100 non-profit partners, and local and state government, Mile High United Way has been leading the movement for positive change for 125 years. Mile High United Way unites people, ideas and resources to advance the common good and concentrates on helping people of all ages, in every stage of their lives, through three interconnected areas of change: School Readiness, Youth Success and Adult Self-Sufficiency. For more information, visit www.unitedwaydenver.org. For more information on the Social Innovation Fund grant, visit www.unitedwaydenver.org/schoolreadiness
About the Salazar Family Foundation
The Salazar Family Foundation’s core mission is to encourage Denver-area students to achieve their educational dreams. The Foundation does this by supporting organizations that are committed to improving the quality of education and students’ access to it. Founded in 1999 by V. Robert (Rob) and Lola Salazar, Salazar Family Foundation is located in Denver and has been a major contributor to The Denver Public Schools Foundation, the Jefferson Foundation, and Escuela de Guadalupe. Since 1999, the generosity of the Salazar Family Foundation has enabled The Jefferson Foundation to provide nearly $1 million for programs and support to Jeffco Public Schools, its students and employees. Learn more at www.salazarfamilyfoundation.com.
Please more information contact Katie Tiernan at 303.982.2261 or katietiernan@jeffersonfoundation.org.
www.jeffersonfoundation.org
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My Student, My Hero celebrates Jeffco’s graduating seniors
February 23, 2012, Lakewood, CO —Eight Jeffco high school seniors will be recognized at the 9th annual My Student, My Hero celebration Saturday, March 10, 2012 on the Community Stage in Southwest Plaza (Wadsworth at Bowles.) The event begins at 11:30 with a performance by the Manning School’s “Images” performance troupe under the direction of Shawna Mendez.
Southwest Plaza, the Columbine Courier, and The Jefferson Foundation partner on My Student, My Hero annually to recognize Jeffco high school seniors who embody leadership qualities in their schools and communities. Students were nominated by their school principals, counselors and staff.
"Jeffco schools are full of incredibly talented, compassionate and fearless students,” said Katie Tiernan, executive director of The Jefferson Foundation. “Our honorees come from diverse backgrounds and each one is a hero in a unique way. The contributions of our eight honorees make our community a better place to live.”
Co-sponsoring partners of the celebration include Jacqueline’s Photography and Elite Sound. Click here for more information on the 2012 My Student, My Hero honorees!
2012 honorees include:
Joseph Tiner (Arvada HS)
Nominated by Principal, Kathy Norton
“He is highly committed to success within his classes and towards developing himself into a person of character. Joe’s persevering nature and complete devotion to education, family and community are endearing traits and qualities not found in just anyone.”
Connor Bottke (Arvada West HS)
Nominated by Principal, Robert C. Bishop
“Connor has found his voice and he is ready to share it with those fortunate enough to be a part of his life. I have no doubt that in his future endeavors Connor will continue to share his gifts with the same level of passion that he has devoted to Arvada West.”
Luis Zuniga (Brady High School)
Nominated by Principal, Troy Braley
“His life skills teacher said: ‘What a great kid! He took a leadership role in the class and was honest and genuine.’ I could ask any teacher at Brady and receive the same enthusiastic response... I am proud to nominate Luis Zuniga for this award, I can think of no one who deserves it more.”
Tori Kelly (Columbine HS) Nominated by Counselor, Renate Shafter
“Tori is a young woman of integrity, opening herself up to many different kinds of people and experiences. She is loyal, honest, and reliable. In her communication with others she offers connection and authenticity, and always makes those around her feel cared about and at ease. Tori has a depth of character and an ability to look beyond herself that extends well beyond her years.”
Melba Njenga (Dakota Ridge HS) Nominated by Principal, Jim Jelinek
Teacher Mellissa Lewis said “It is not the grade that Melba earns on tests or assignments - but the grade that she earns as a person. In my book -- straight A's. She challenges me to be on my toes and be ready answer all sorts of questions.”
Rebecca "Becca" Lidvall (D'Evelyn Junior/Senior HS) Nominated by Principal, Terry Elliott
“Becca Lidvall embodies the character we would like all our students to possess. She is kind, caring, responsible, respectful, honest, civic minded and hard working. It is rare to have the opportunity to work in support of such a truly amazing individual.”
Adrienne Prueitt (Golden HS) Nominated by Principal, Brian Conroy
“Adrienne always has a great attitude, works hard and is a positive influence in the classroom. Her academic ability is supported by the long list of Honors and AP classes she has taken, her outstanding GPA and her numerous academic awards. Adrienne is a candidate for the Boettcher scholarship.”
Clare Livingston (Lakewood HS)
Nominated by Counselor, Geoffrey R. LaPlant
“Clare has remained a rock at Lakewood High School. She is a section leader in our marching band, a top student in our IB program and a kind, conscientious young women who we are all very proud of. I can honestly say she is one of the top students I have worked with in my 10-year career as a counselor. She truly is a hero!”
For more information please contact: Anton Delgado 303-982-2212.
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The Jefferson Foundation announces Salazar Literacy Initiative grant funding
February 17, 2012, Lakewood, CO ~ The Salazar Literacy Initiative, a program of The Jefferson Foundation, is a literacy-focused and competitive grant opportunity for Jeffco Public Schools. In the 2012-2013 school year, the Initiative will provide $50,000 in funding for programs and projects that address an identified achievement gap in literacy, including both reading and writing. Grants awards will be from $2,000 to $9,000 each.
Funds may be used to purchase reading materials, teaching software or curricula, teacher or staff training, or for the development of long-term school- or community-based literacy projects. Only schools and organizations directly serving Jeffco Public Schools students are eligible.
Deadline to submit the grant application is 4:30 pm, March 30, 2012. For more information and to download an application: http://www.jeffersonfoundation.org/special/salazar.html
Since 1999, the generosity of the Salazar Family Foundation has enabled The Jefferson Foundation to provide over a million dollars for programs and support to Jeffco Public Schools, its students and employees.
Photo 1: Vivian Elementary’s Heather Marks works with students during last year’s “Reading Summer Safari,” a Salazar Literacy Initiative-funded project at Vivian Elementary.
For more information contact Anton Delgado at 303.982-2212 or antondelgado@jeffersonfoundation.org.
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Lights on after school projects at Bell Middle keep students involved in safe activities
February 14, 2012, Lakewood, CO ~ Golden parents, Mike and Alison DuVarney, noticed a number of students hanging out after school and soon realized that most of the kids were going home to empty houses. 
“Middle school is the in-between age when they are too old for a baby sitter, yet too young to be left alone to get into trouble,” said Mike DuVarney. “We had seen many of our kids’ friends struggle with that situation and we decided to do something about it.”
With experience in developing and running activity programs and sports camps in Washington State, California, Wyoming and Colorado, he approached 
Bell Middle School with his Active4Youth program of after-school programming.
With help from a $4,000 Lights On After School grant from The Jefferson Foundation, students at Bell are now involved in a variety of activities. After a snack, the students have homework time, or they can participate in elective enrichment classes such as arts, crafts and board games; designing and building their own skate boards; healthy cooking and nutrition activities; and more.
“We have seen the impact on our students over the last three months, particularly with the younger students,” said Bell principal, Bridget Jones. ”They know that regardless of what happens outside of school they have a safe, positive and welcoming environment that they can come to each day.”
The Jefferson Foundation and its funding partners are in the 5th year of providing Lights On After Schools grants to Jeffco Public Schools. In the 2011-2012 school year, the Foundation provided over $132,000 in funding to 23 Jeffco schools, and projects.
Photo 1: Students spread out to work on homework.
Photo 2: Mike DuVarney leads students in a healthy cooking demonstration.
For more information contact: Anton Delgado: 303-982-2212
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The Jefferson Foundation says goodbye to Cyndee Manaugh
February 7, 2012, Lakewood, CO ~ Cyndee Manaugh retired after a 30-year career in Jeffco Schools. She wasn’t retired long before she came to work at The Jefferson Foundation, where she has been for the past eight and a half years as the executive assistant. This time, Cyndee said it’s time to enjoy retirement.
Cyndee began her Jeffco Schools career by helping open Warder Elementary, where she worked as a teacher’s aide. Ten years were spent as principal’s secretary at Weber Elementary followed by ten more as Administrative Assistant in the Athletics Department. Cyndee completed her tenure in Instructional Services in English Language Arts.
Cyndee is a veteran volunteer at the Crystal Ball fundraisers and a supporter of the Foundation before coming to work. She counts a total of 15 Crystal Balls that she has volunteered or worked at.
Cyndee is valued for her organizational skills and knowledge of the School District and will be 
missed. In lieu of a party, she is requesting cards and well-wishes be sent to The Jefferson Foundation, 809 Quail Street, Building #1, Lakewood, CO 80215.
Photo 1: Cyndee at a Belmar Elementary check presentation.
Photo 2: Cyndee and, husband, Ron Manaugh plan on spending more time traveling.
For more information contact Anton Delgado at 303.982-2212 or antondelgado@jeffersonfoundation.org.
www.jeffersonfoundation.org
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Jeffco Community Night with the Denver Nuggets
Denver Nuggets vs. New Orleans Hornets
Friday, March 9, 2012
7:00 p.m. at Pepsi Center
$17 Tickets
Seating throughout the Pepsi Center, a $28 to $120 value and a portion of ticket price is donated to The Jefferson Foundation.
The Jeffco schools with the most tickets sold receive the best seats. Top four schools have the chance to shoot hoops on the court before or after the Nuggets game.
Ticket sales are online only and will be delivered electronically via Nuggets E-Tickets. Tickets subject to availability, and are first come, first served.
Click here now for tickets! http://www.pepsicenter.com/nuggets/JPSCN.asp
Questions? Contact Brady McIntyre at 303.405.7635 or email at bmcintyre@pepsicenter.com
Equity and Excellence Art Exhibit opening rescheduled
The Jefferson Foundation 2012 Equity and Excellence Art Exhibit Artists Celebration and reception has been rescheduled for Friday, March 16th from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Jeffco Public Schools Education Center, 1829 Denver West Drive, #27, Golden, CO, 80401.
Members of the Arvada High School Strings will perform. The show is on display through April 3rd.
Coordinated by Aimee Pickar, Swanson Elementary, and Phyllis Bubeck, Wayne Carle Middle, this is the tenth exhibit exploring different perspectives of ethnic and cultural diversity and showcasing the work of K-12th Jeffco students.
The Jefferson Foundation gratefully acknowledges the support of FirstBank, Kaiser Permanente, and the Betty and Joe Wetherbee Arts and Music Fund, which all contributed to make the 2012 student art exhibits possible.
Photo: “Circle Painting” Katy Irvin’s 6th Grade class, Secrest Elementary. Based on the work of Hiep Nguyen, the circle represents the harmony that can be created when a group of people come together to paint.
For more information contact Anton Delgado 303-982-2212
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The Jefferson Foundation announces Employee Giving Campaign Bingo-Bango-Bongo Grants!
February 1, 2012, Lakewood, CO ~ Congratulations to the winning Jeffco schools and departments who signed up for employee giving during the recent December campaign.
Receiving $1,000 Bingo grants for having the most employees signing up at their schools were:
Stein Elementary School, North Arvada Middle School and Lakewood High School. Lakewood High School also received a Bango 
grant of $500 for the highest average monthly payroll contribution per employee.
Bongo grants of $250 each were presented to DLEA (10 employees,) Student Services (6 employees) and Human Resources (5 employees.)
Nearly 150 Jeffco employees signed up to make a payroll donation to The Jefferson Foundation and support its work in Jeffco Public Schools. If you would like to join them, you can make a tax-deductible payroll donation at any time by going to http://jeffco.cshares.org.
Photo 1: Stein Elementary Principal, Socorro Alarcón, accepts a $1,000 check from Katie Tiernan.
Photo 2: North Arvada Middle School Principal, Trip Sargent and Katie Tiernan.
Photo 3: (L to R) Suzanne McClung, Dena Goldberg, Jim Fernald, Don Cameron and Debra Alexandridis receive a $1,500 check from Katie Tiernan.
Please more information contact Katie Tiernan at 303.982.2261 or katietiernan@jeffersonfoundation.org.
www.jeffersonfoundation.org
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