Website: vilasre5.us

Address: 202 South Collingwood

Grade Level: 6-12th grade Science/History

Region: Southeast

Project Title: Out of the Classroom

Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning

Funding Amount Requested: $2000

Project Description:
We are located so far from some of these places, and we are on a tight budget this year. I would love to take students on a few trips for my science and history classes and not have to worry about leaving so early and getting back so late. I would love to be able to have funds to stay overnight to experience more than hurrying through everything. We are located in the southeastern part of Colorado. We have a total of 48 students K-12th grades. We have around an 85% reduced lunch population that attend our school. This would benefit them so they don't have to worry about sending money for meals and such.

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Impact:
I hope that the students will learn some history and science from all of the trips that we can take. Places like the Salt Mines, Mesa Verde, Denver Museum, Denver Mint, Capitol Building, Aquarium, and any other historical sites. I like to do a lot of projects in my classroom, and being able to culminate with these trips would be awesome!

Use of Funds:

• $500 gas
• $500 meals
• $500 lodging
• $500 entrance fees

Teacher: Erin Comden
School: Branson School
District: RE-82 Branson School
District Website: bransonbearcats.org
School Address: 101 Saddlerock Dr
Grade Level: Kindergarten and 1st
Region: Southeast
Project Title: STEM at the Stadium
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $1,328

Project Description:
April 25th is the 13th Annual STEM Day at Coors Field! This pre-game event incorporates STEM concepts into science experiments. Branson School would like to take our K-8th graders for this educational event! 'STEM at the Stadium' will be an event that several students in our school would not normally be able to attend with their own families. It will be an exciting and memorable time for those who might not otherwise have an opportunity like this! We are requesting $1,328 to fund this project.

Branson School has students from Colorado and New Mexico. We are 2 miles from the New Mexico border and have a town population of 65 people. We have a school and post office, but must travel to either Raton or Trinidad for groceries. Our students travel 2 hours round trip daily to attend Branson, but are willing to drive that far for the quality education that our school provides.

Project Justification:
Our tiny, rural school has only 67 students, K-12th grade. Our student population is about 27% Hispanic/not identifying as white, and about 60% of our student body is considered low-income. Las Animas county has one of the highest populations of families receiving government assistance. Because of these statistics, it has always been the goal of Branson School to offer a wide range of activities which ignite curiosity, foster a love for learning, and expand students' horizons.

We believe providing experiential learning opportunities makes abstract concepts tangible. In the past, we have participated in robotics competitions and held an annual Sciencepalooza. It is very difficult to expose our students to fun and engaging STEM activities in rural Southern Colorado. When we saw the opportunity to attend STEM in the Stadium, we jumped on board with it! This grant would relieve the financial burden on our district and allow for our younger students to experience the fun and excitement of a baseball game combined with science in action.

Budget Breakdown:
43 student tickets and 6 adult tickets: $588
43/6 lunches: $490
Fuel for bus: $250
Total: $1,328

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Website: https://manzanola.k12.co.us

Address: 32475 County Rd. 11.5, Manzanola, CO 81058

Grade Level: 5th grade - All subjects

Region: Southeast

Project Title: Entertaining Education

Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning

Funding Amount Requested: $1800

Project Description:
I would like to give my students field trips and cultural experiences to increase their understanding and knowledge of life outside of Manzanola, CO. Manzanola is a rural farming community that lies along the lower Arkansas River Valley. This small town, of approximately 600 people, used to be known for its fruit and vegetable production. Unfortunately, as the life blood of the Arkansas Valley (WATER) has been sold to large cities, our rural community has suffered, as have neighboring communities. What does this have to do with school, you may ask? Well, it has created extreme poverty for this southeastern Colorado region. Many small businesses have closed their doors, as there is just not the money to keep them going. Families are struggling financially, and drug abuse and mental health issues plague many of my students' families. I want more for my students!

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Impact:
If I were awarded a Nathan Yip Foundation Grant, I would like to take my students on field trips and give them cultural experiences that they may never have. I believe these field trips and cultural experiences would help broaden their knowledge and increase their understanding of life outside of Manzanola. I believe these experiences would strengthen students' cultural awareness, as well as inspire them to dream and realize they can become and do anything they set their mind to do/become. Also, I believe these experiences will increase my students' knowledge in all of the STEAM fields.

Website: www.re3j.com

Address: 7558 Co Rd 59 Keenesberg, CO. 80643

Grade Level: Kindergarten, all subjects

Region: Southeast

Project Title: HELP ME - HELP THEM!

Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning

Funding Amount Requested: $2000

Project Description:
I'd like to use this money to fund an outdoor field trip that ties into what we are learning about in class or use it to bring in an exhibitor to teach the kids about something that relates to a career or job in our community. A lot of kids in our community do not have access to outside activities beyond their homes or schools, such as visiting a science museum or going to the zoo. I'd use these funds to help fund an outside field trip or bring in someone that can teach the kids about things that go on in our community.

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Impact:
I'd like to expose our community of children to different cultural experiences that they may not be able to access outside of school. Funds could help pay for a bus, tickets to an event (such as a museum), or help fund bringing an exhibitor to our school to show and tell the kids about different careers, such as working with animals from the zoo. Our community of children come from families that have limited funds or live in housing situations that prevent them from funding outside projects and trips with their families. Many of our kids' learning experiences come from their families and home lives. I'd like to offer a fully immersive experience that could spark a flame for a possible future career or opportunity greater than themselves, giving them an opportunity to experience something new and exciting and ignite a passion for learning and careers.

Use of Funds:
$2000 to be used for tickets to a museum and bus fare, or used for an outside exhibitor to come to the school and do a presentation from the zoo.

Teacher: Shelley Green
School: Custer County Schools C-1
District: Custer County School District C-1
District Website: https://custercountyschools.org
School Address: 709 Main Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252
Grade Level: Gifted and Talented 1st-12th
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: Expand Their Horizons
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
I would like to take a small group of about 10 Gifted and Talented High School students on an overnight field trip to Denver. During this trip, we will spend a full day at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, where students will engage with exhibits that will expand their knowledge of science and nature. This trip will provide an enriching experience outside of the classroom, helping these students explore new horizons and deepen their understanding of the world.

Proposal:
This field trip aims to provide students with an immersive learning experience at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. They will participate in the planetarium and infinity theater experiences, exploring scientific and natural wonders in an engaging environment. The budget includes costs for transportation, lodging, food, and museum entry fees.

Impact on Students:
This trip will provide Gifted and Talented students with exposure to new learning experiences that will enhance their academic growth. The field trip will help foster curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking while giving students the opportunity to apply their learning in real-world settings. These students will benefit from an enriching experience that goes beyond traditional classroom learning.

Budget Breakdown:

• Entry Costs: $34/student (general entry + planetarium + infinity theater) x 10 students = $340
• Adult Entry: $43/adult x 3 = $129
• Lodging: $1,200
• Food: $600
• Transportation: $350 (14-person bus)

Total Cost Budget: $2,619

Link to Supporting Documents: Denver Museum of Nature and Science Field Trip Budget

Teacher: Patrick Linnehan
School: Gilpin County Elementary School
District: Gilpin County School District
District Website: gilpin.k12.co.us
School Address: 10595 Hwy 119, Central Mountains
Grade Level: 4,5
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: 100 Elk Outdoor Education Trip
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Gilpin County Elementary School students will attend the 100 Elk Outdoor Education Field Trip. This trip is a 3-day, 2-night adventure for all fourth and fifth grade students, totaling 60 participants. Students will learn valuable outdoor skills like archery, canoeing, and hiking, as well as study the local ecology with the guidance of experienced instructors. The trip costs $230 per student, and we aim to reduce this financial burden for families, making this incredible learning and bonding experience accessible to all.

Proposal:
The 100 Elk Outdoor Education Trip is a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in nature, gain hands-on knowledge of the Rocky Mountain environment, and develop practical outdoor skills. Beyond the educational benefits, this trip fosters teamwork, self-confidence, and lifelong memories for the students. However, at $230 per participant, the cost can be prohibitive for many families. The requested funds will help reduce the cost per student and allow us to ensure that all students, regardless of financial circumstances, can attend.

Budget Breakdown:

The $2,000 requested will reduce the cost per student by $33, providing much-needed financial relief for the participating families.

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Teacher: Cassandra Barfoot
School: Weld Central High School
District: Re3j
District Website: Weld Central High School
School Address: 4715 Co Rd 59, Keenesburg, CO 80643
Grade Level: 9th Grade Advisory
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: Conquer YOUR Obstacles
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Weld Central High School's Freshman Advisory group is seeking funding to support an important field trip as part of the "Discovery Program," designed to help freshmen build a sense of community and learn positive social skills. The school serves a large rural area, and many students come from different towns, making it difficult to form a close-knit community. The "Discovery Program" helps students develop essential communication and social skills needed to succeed in school, at home, and in future careers.

One of the key events is a ropes course trip at "The Edge" in Castle Rock, where students will participate in team-building exercises and activities that promote trust, risk-taking, and teamwork. This activity helps reinforce the lessons learned in the program and provides an opportunity for students to bond with each other. The day-long trip is a vital component of the program and is mandatory for all freshmen.

Budget Breakdown:

Ropes Course at "The Edge" in Castle Rock: $44 per person
Total Participants: 158 freshmen students and 8 teachers
Total Cost: $7,304

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Teacher: Cassandra Barfoot
School: Weld Central High School
District: Re3j
District Website: Weld Central High School
School Address: 4715 Co Rd 59, Keenesburg, CO 80643
Grade Level: 9th Grade Advisory
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: Conquer YOUR Obstacles
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Weld Central High School's Freshman Advisory group is seeking funding to support an important field trip as part of the "Discovery Program," designed to help freshmen build a sense of community and learn positive social skills. The school serves a large rural area, and many students come from different towns, making it difficult to form a close-knit community. The "Discovery Program" helps students develop essential communication and social skills needed to succeed in school, at home, and in future careers.

One of the key events is a ropes course trip at "The Edge" in Castle Rock, where students will participate in team-building exercises and activities that promote trust, risk-taking, and teamwork. This activity helps reinforce the lessons learned in the program and provides an opportunity for students to bond with each other. The day-long trip is a vital component of the program and is mandatory for all freshmen.

Budget Breakdown:

Ropes Course at "The Edge" in Castle Rock: $44 per person
Total Participants: 158 freshmen students and 8 teachers

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Teacher: Nolan George
School: Weld Central High School
District: RE3J
District Website: Weld Central High School
School Address: 4715 Co Rd 59, Keenesburg, CO 80643
Grade Level: 9th grade advisory
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: Conquer YOUR Obstacles
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Weld Central High School is requesting funds to support the Freshman advisory group through the "Discovery Program," a new initiative aimed at building community and teaching students essential social skills. The school serves a large rural district with students from various towns, and the program addresses the challenge of fostering community among students who are geographically dispersed. The Discovery Program includes direct instruction, teacher modeling, practice, and feedback to help students develop positive social skills, gain self-confidence, and improve their sense of belonging.

A key component of the program is a ropes course training day at "The Edge" in Castle Rock. The activity will reinforce lessons learned throughout the year and strengthen bonds among the students. This ropes course focuses on team-building, trust, appropriate risk-taking, and stepping out of comfort zones. The experience is mandatory for all freshmen and serves as an opportunity for students to grow together and build a strong community.

Budget Breakdown:

• Cost per Person for The Edge Program: $44
• Number of Participants: 158 students and 8 teachers
• Total Cost: $7,304

The request for $2,000 in additional funding will help offset the total cost, making the ropes course experience more affordable for students in this small rural district.

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Website: https://bhs.rfsd.k12.co.us/en-US

Address: 600 Southside Dr, Basalt, CO, 81621

Grade Level: 9-12, all subjects

Region: Central Mountains

Project Title: Adventure Trip - River Day

Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning

Funding Amount Requested: $1603

Project Description:
As part of the Outdoor Education experience, 48 sophomore students, along with 5 teachers and 1 adult volunteer, will be going on an adventure trip to Moab. The school population includes 47% of students who qualify for Free and Reduced Fees, 60% Latino, and 17% English Language Learners. Many of these students have never traveled to Moab or camped in the desert. The trip will include hiking in Arches National Park and floating down the Colorado River in kayaks.

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Impact:
The funds will be used to provide all students with access to kayaks and personal flotation devices (PFDs) to ensure a safe river float. The group will be split into two and will rent 10 single-seat inflatable kayaks and 10 inflatable tandem kayaks, allowing them to run the river section twice.

School Website: crestone-charter-school.org

Project Description:
Crestone Charter School, located north of the Great Sand Dunes in the San Luis Valley, is an experiential-based charter school where learning extends far beyond the classroom. Jane Elliott, a K-1 teacher, is seeking funding for the "Let's Learn to Swim" project, which ensures that all students in grades K-3 learn vital water safety and swimming skills. At Crestone Charter School, we believe swimming is an essential life skill that prepares our students for a variety of water-related activities they'll encounter throughout their school years, including river rafting, camping at lakes, and more. This project will provide 25 students with swimming lessons at the Great Sand Dunes Hot Springs in Hooper, CO.

Project Proposal:
The "Let's Learn to Swim" project is aimed at teaching students essential swimming and water safety skills to prepare them for outdoor adventures and life. The most critical reason for learning to swim is safety: we want our students to be able to save their own lives in a water emergency. In addition to swimming lessons, students at Crestone Charter School frequently explore natural areas with creeks, lakes, and rivers. By supporting this project, you will help ensure that all students in this program are water-safe, equipped with the skills they need for future school trips and outdoor experiences.

Budget Narrative:

We are requesting funds for the entrance fee to the Great Sand Dunes Hot Springs swimming pool in Hooper, CO. The entry fee is $8.00 per student, and we plan to swim 10 times this fall. With 25 students participating, we are asking for support to cover these costs.

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Teacher: Beth Nelson
School: Black Canyon High School - Engagement Center
District: Montrose School District RE-1J
District Website: https://www.mcsd.org/BCHS_EC
School Address: 930 Colorado Avenue, Montrose, CO 81401
Grade Level: 7-8
Region: Southwest
Project Title: Mindfulness Trip to Ouray, CO
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
We seek funding for a field trip for 80 students in our Engagement Center program, focusing on mindful thinking, self-care, and physical exercise. This day-long excursion to Ouray, Colorado, will include a hike around Ouray's scenic perimeter and a visit to the historic Ouray Hot Springs. The springs, fed by Box Canyon, produce a continuous flow of 250-300 gallons per minute of 150-degree mineral water, historically known as "Miracle Waters" for their healing properties. This trip will provide students with a unique opportunity to enhance physical health, mental well-being, and appreciation for natural environments.

Proposal:
Our Engagement Center program serves students at risk of school dropout due to truancy, academic failures, or behavioral issues. This trip will offer these students a day dedicated to mental health and physical wellness. The itinerary includes a scenic perimeter hike and a visit to the Ouray Hot Springs, known for their detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. The hike will promote physical fitness, while the springs will offer relaxation and an opportunity to practice mindfulness and self-care. By providing this experience, we hope to reinforce the importance of mental health and build stronger relationships with our students, supporting their overall well-being.

Budget Breakdown:

4 punch passes for Ouray Hot Springs: $1,600
Gas/Travel: $400
Hike: No cost
Picnic Lunch: Provided by the school
Treat: Seeking local sponsorship

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Teacher: Evelyn Nelson
School: Ouray Elementary, Middle, and High School
District: Ouray R-1
District Website: www.ourayschool.org
School Address: 400 7th Ave, PO BOX N, Ouray, CO 81427
Grade Level: K-12
Region: Southwest
Project Title: Special Ed. Adaptive Ski/Sport
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $1,000

Project Description:
We are requesting funds to provide students with disabilities the opportunity to participate in adaptive skiing and snowboarding experiences in Telluride. Ouray is a small town with around 200 students from PreK-12. I case manage 11 students K-4, and my colleague manages 13 students in grades 5-12. We serve a diverse population of students with developmental delays, Down syndrome, Autism, Emotional, and Specific Learning Disabilities. Many of our families are from low SES backgrounds and struggle to afford these outdoor opportunities. This grant will help cover the costs for lunch, snacks, and drinks while our students participate in the Telluride Adaptive Sports Program (TASP), where they gain physical skills, confidence, and build peer relationships.

Proposal:
While we receive some funding to cover registration and rental costs, this grant would help cover any increases in fees, as well as meals for the students during their lessons. The goal is to eliminate the financial burden on families, so students can fully engage in the adaptive outdoor experience. Students who attend TASP show tremendous growth in physical abilities, self-confidence, and social interactions with peers.

Budget Breakdown:

$900 for pizza, drinks, and snacks for 13 students over 3 lessons
$100 for assistance with potential increases in registration or rental fees

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Teacher: Cassidy Bowman
School: Centennial Middle School/Black Canyon High School
District: Montrose County School District
District Website: https://www.mcsd.org/centennialmiddleschool_home.aspx
School Address: 1100 S. 5th St, Montrose, CO 81401
Grade Level: 6-8 Engagement Center Teacher
Region: Southwest
Project Title: Strengthening Social Skills
Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning
Amount Requested: $1,030

Project Description:
I work with at-risk youth who do not have the opportunities to experience enriching activities. Many of my students are living in poverty, which limits access to such opportunities. One of my students' favorite field trips is to the escape room followed by lunch at a sit-down restaurant. These trips focus on developing problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication skills at the escape room, as well as restaurant etiquette, a crucial social skill.

Proposal:
In the Engagement Center, we strive to reengage students with their learning through various field trips. These students often lack the skills needed to succeed in traditional classrooms, so we focus on building those skills. To participate, students must work on improving their attendance and behavior. The escape room field trip is a valuable yet more expensive experience compared to other trips. In teams of 4-5, students work on problem-solving, code-breaking, and teamwork, all vital for success in school and the workplace. For most students, this will be their first time at an escape room.

Afterward, we take the students to a sit-down restaurant, where they practice essential social skills such as using manners, appropriate behavior without devices, and tipping etiquette. This field trip gives them a unique opportunity to learn restaurant behavior, often for the first time, in a supportive environment.

Budget Breakdown:

• Escape Room: $23 per student x 27 students = $621
• Lunch: $15 per student x 27 students = $405

Total: $1,030

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Website: www.deltaschools.com

Address: 845 SE Deer Creek Drive, Cedaredge, CO 81413

Grade Level: 6th-8th Grades Visual Arts

Region: Southwest

Project Title: Think Outside the Walls!

Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning

Funding Amount Requested: $1980

Project Description:
I am requesting funding for a "go-wagon" equipped with a class set of outdoor chairs and clipboards to help teachers conduct classes outside easily and successfully. Our school is located in rural western Colorado at the base of the beautiful and expansive Grand Mesa. While we have established trails and parks nearby, we rarely conduct classes outdoors beyond recess and P.E. With the right tools, holding any class outdoors could be simple and meaningful. We serve 189 students in grades 6-8, with 49% qualifying for free or reduced lunch. This initiative would benefit the entire school, encouraging students to move and learn amidst the scenic beauty of our surroundings.

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Impact:
Attending the "Teaching Students Outdoors Workshop with Good Natured Learning" last spring inspired me to make outdoor learning more accessible at our school. Outdoor learning has proven social and emotional benefits, including increased physical and mental wellness, improved student behaviors, more equitable learning, and fostering environmental stewardship. By providing teachers with a "go-wagon," complete with outdoor chairs and clipboards, we can easily move classes outdoors, encouraging students to engage in embodied, real-world learning experiences. This initiative would model effective outdoor education and support a shift toward less screen time and more hands-on experiences, improving our school's culture and student well-being.

Use of Funds:
The total cost for the "go-wagon" is approximately $1980.
- All-terrain wagon: $109.00
- 28 Crazy Creek chairs: $1740.00
- Class set of clipboards: $130.00
Any remaining funds will be used to purchase a whiteboard that can fit in the wagon.