The Weld RE-4 Education Foundation believes every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed. Through strong partnerships with the Weld RE-4 School District, businesses, families, and community supporters, the Foundation works to enhance educational experiences. These collaborative efforts empower both students and teachers across the growing communities of Windsor, Severance, and west Greeley.
The Foundation's core mission is centered on providing impactful resources and innovative educational opportunities that go beyond traditional classroom funding. By strategically investing in programs that strengthen academic achievement, innovation, creativity, and support teacher excellence, the organization helps prepare local students for success in an increasingly competitive and ever-changing world.
Impact of Teacher Grants
Since 2013, the Weld RE-4 Education Foundation has invested almost $900,000 directly into classrooms through its teacher grant program. The organization actively strives to support educators by providing them with expanded resources and unique instructional tools. This past school year alone, the foundation awarded almost $65,000 for 26 teacher grants across the district.
One standout example this year is a teacher grant awarded to Mr. Swanson at Windsor Middle School for his innovative STEAM Guitar class. Funding provided essential equipment—including breadboards, capacitors, Stratocaster guitars, and audio jacks—building a lasting connection between electrical engineering and the arts.
Mr. Swanson said, “Through this Teacher Grant Award, I've learned a lot as a teacher, being able to help kids understand electrical schematics and how to translate them into a physical circuit that works.”
Another project to highlight is Severance High School’s Food Science class, where Mrs. Rice utilized a foundation grant to bring "farm-to-table" experiences to life. By funding essential tools—including a meat grinder, canning equipment, dehydrators, mixers, and a seed grinder—the grant provides an immersive, tactile learning experience. This connects students directly to the local agriculture industry while strengthening the district's Career and Technical Education (CTE) curriculum.
Ultimately, these hands-on opportunities do more than just teach—they ignite excitement and creativity that will inspire students at both Windsor Middle School and Severance High School for years to come.
Igniting Leadership & Community Service through Firestarter Student Grants
Launched in 2024, the Firestarter Student Grant program represents a powerful investment designed to inspire community service within our schools and positive impact among middle and high school students.
The Wizard Workshop stands out as a premier example of this initiative. This project brought fourth graders from Mountain View Elementary into Windsor High School’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) labs for an immersive day of hands-on learning, ranging from culinary arts to building planter boxes.
Reflecting on the success of the initiative, Mrs. Spaur, a teacher from Windsor High School, said, "The Foundation's support of the planter box project helped create an engaging, hands-on experience that introduced fourth graders to the many opportunities within Career and Technical Education at Windsor High School. Just as importantly, the event gave high school students the chance to share their skills, mentor younger learners, and serve as ambassadors for the district's CTE programs."
Another standout initiative is the Severance High School Robotics Club Outreach program, led by Mrs. Cornmesser. Funded by a student grant, this program purchased age-appropriate robots specifically designed for younger students to explore. Through mentorship, high schoolers guide elementary and middle school students in foundational coding and engineering. This peer-to-peer model builds a self-sustaining cycle that ensures younger generations are inspired to join the robotics team, securing the long-term longevity of the program.
Championing Inclusion: The Legacy of Unified Sports
True community excellence means ensuring every student has a place to shine. In 2019, the Weld RE-4 Education Foundation provided the critical seed money to launch Windsor Unified Sports, and its dedication to the program has never wavered.
Unified Sports is about far more than competition—it is a gateway to inclusion that extends into classrooms, friendships, and the broader community. By placing students with and without disabilities on the same team, the program creates authentic connections, mutual respect, and a positive culture. Thanks to community generosity and Foundation support, athletes receive essential needs like team uniforms, adaptable sports equipment, and letterman jackets.
Under the leadership of Coach Lori Couch, Windsor High School has cultivated a powerful program where everyone feels valued. The lasting impact was on full display at this year’s Unified Community Showcase. Numerous alumni returned to participate, standing tall with a lifelong confidence that serves as an inspiring testament to the program's legacy.
Empowering Classrooms, Strengthening Community
Beyond its core support of teacher and student grants, special projects, and scholarships, the foundation’s vital mission extends to staff appreciation, school supplies, and the family resource cabinet—proving that its commitment to community is stronger than ever. As the area grows, the Weld RE-4 Education Foundation remains deeply committed to investing in the future of students, supporting outstanding educators, and strengthening the vital connection between local schools and the surrounding community.
To learn more about the Weld RE-4 Education Foundation and discover how to get involved, please visit their official website at www.weldre4educationfoundation.org.
Unified Athlete Erik prepares to shoot a basket with Unified Alumni Shane, who is playing defense at the annual Windsor High School Unified Showcase Basketball game. Sponsored by the Foundation, this vital program unites students with and without disabilities on the same court. Together, they aren’t just playing basketball; they are creating connections and a long-lasting positive impact.
The Foundation's core mission is centered on providing impactful resources and innovative educational opportunities that go beyond traditional classroom funding.