Teacher: Jeremiah Champion

School: Rocky Ford Jr/Sr High School, RockyFord R2 School District

Region: Southeast Colorado

Project Title: Funding the Arts Challenge

Category: Music, Journalism and the Arts

Amount Requested: $2,000

Principal: Rita Robinson

School Website: rockyfordk12.org

Project Description:
Jeremiah Champion is a dedicated teacher and colorguard coach at Rocky Ford Jr/Sr High School, part of the RockyFord R2 School District in Rockyford, Colorado. Located on the eastern plains, our school serves a diverse population of 150 students in grades 9 through 12. Many of our students are at-risk and face challenges within mainstream educational programs, making extracurricular activities like colorguard essential for their engagement and personal development. Our growing colorguard program aims to provide these students with valuable skills, teamwork opportunities, and a creative outlet through the performing arts.

Project Proposal:
The Funding the Arts Challenge project is designed to build and enhance our colorguard winter program by securing the necessary equipment, covering transportation costs to competitions, and paying membership dues. As our program continues to expand, we encounter increasing needs for resources to support our students effectively. This grant will enable us to purchase essential equipment such as flags, rifles, sabers, and uniforms, ensuring that our team is well-prepared for performances and competitions. Additionally, funds will cover safe and reliable transportation to and from events, as well as membership fees that allow our team to participate in regional and national competitions. Providing food for students during events is also a priority, ensuring they have the energy and support needed to perform their best. By securing this funding, we can offer our students a fantastic season, fostering teamwork, discipline, and artistic expression while opening doors to potential career opportunities in the arts.

Budget Narrative:

Membership Fees: To cover annual dues for colorguard association memberships.

Equipment: Purchase of flags, rifles, sabers, uniforms, and other necessary colorguard equipment.

Transportation: Safe bus transportation to and from competitions and events.

Food for Students: Providing meals during events and competitions to support student well-being.