Website: lajuntaschools.org

Address: 1401 East 6th Street, La Junta, CO 81050

Grade Level: 7-12th Industrial Arts

Region: Southeast

Project Title: Building a Better Future

Category: Vocational & Physical Education

Funding Amount Requested: $2000

Project Description:
I teach at-risk students who struggle with mainstream educational programs. My school is located in rural Colorado with a very diverse population of 150 students. We have introduced the idea that our students would be better served by developing real-life skills. We have a limited budget for this new program. My goal is to equip my classroom with materials and tools to provide real-life construction instruction. The pictures provided show the lack of resources in our industrial arts classroom.

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Impact:
I would use these funds to better equip my classroom and purchase materials for low-income students who cannot provide for themselves. Each of the projects we complete in my classroom helps students become proficient in a variety of construction skills such as framing, concrete, plumbing, electrical, and drywall.

Use of Funds:

• $200 - 2 x 4 boards
• $150 - 1 x 4 boards
• $200 - 2 x 6 boards
• $150 - 1 x 6 boards
• $200 - plywood
• $1100 - various tools such as framing nailers, screw impact, impact driver, screws, nails, and other hardware

Website: lajuntaschools.org

Address: 1401 East 6th Street, La Junta, CO 81050

Grade Level: Secondary

Region: Southeast

Project Title: Build a Better Kitchen

Category: Vocational & Physical Education

Funding Amount Requested: $1,000

Project Description:
Tiger Trades Academy in La Junta, CO, serves a community with high poverty rates, where many students are raised by grandparents. The school's mission is to empower students to lead purposeful and impactful lives through adaptability, thoughtfulness, and capabilities. In my class, I teach food safety, culinary arts, and life skills. I aim to ensure that students can prepare meals from scratch and become self-sufficient members of society. I also teach animal science, where we cover various topics and host a petting zoo for local youth and the nearby nursing home.

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Impact:
We started canning two years ago in our small classroom kitchen and had success selling our goods to purchase a freezer and a new stove. These contributions have helped us expand cooking activities and foster student excitement for culinary learning. The funds from this grant would allow us to improve our canning process and support projects such as our local 4H members who compete at county fairs. One of our students even placed Reserve Champion at the Colorado State Fair for a creative cooking contest.

Use of Funds:

• Bell Electric water bath for canning: $279
• Brinsea 28 egg incubator for hatching chicks: $400
• Stainless steel utility deep sink for washing dishes: $269

Total: $1,000

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

Address: 32475 County Road 11.5

Grade Level: 7-12 Agricultural Education

Region: Southeast

Project Title: Agricultural Lab- Electrical

Category: Vocational & Physical Education

Funding Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
The Manzanola FFA Chapter and Agricultural Education Department has begun an ongoing project to create an Agricultural Lab that will house several hands-on learning opportunities, including a Greenhouse, a Garden Plot, and a Livestock facility. The Greenhouse has already been funded, and we are currently waiting on building permits to complete the basic construction. To continue this project, the next phase involves the addition of an electrical fuse panel, yard light, connectors, lighting, and outlets for the Greenhouse and livestock barn. While labor has been donated to complete the electrical work, we need funding to purchase the materials.

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Impact:
This project will significantly enhance the learning experience for students in the FFA Chapter and Agricultural Education Department by bringing hands-on learning opportunities directly to the school campus. Currently, our animals and greenhouse activities are housed far from town, limiting student access to weekends. The new lab will allow students to learn in a real-world environment by raising livestock, growing crops, and managing greenhouse operations right at school. The electrical upgrades will enable us to install necessary utilities such as lighting, heating, and automatic watering systems to ensure the animals' safety and the proper functioning of the greenhouse.

Use of Funds:
- Power Pole: $200
- Main Circuit Breaker: $200
- Lighting, Wiring, Outlets, and Connectors: $1,200
- Automatic Yard Light: $400

School Website: custercountyschools.org

Project Description:
Rachel Simpson, Head Cheer Coach at Custer County School in Westcliffe, CO, is leading an exciting initiative to transform the school's original locker room into a state-of-the-art Cheer Conditioning Room. This space will provide cheerleaders with a dedicated environment for training, conditioning, and improving their skills. By investing in this project, you will help enhance the safety and performance of the athletes, foster team unity and pride, and strengthen community spirit.

Project Proposal:
The Cheer Conditioning Room will be equipped with strength and conditioning tools, as well as flexibility and mobility aids. This space will offer cheerleaders a safe and supportive environment to improve their athletic performance. Strength training equipment, such as free weights and resistance bands, will build muscle and reduce the risk of injuries, while flexibility tools like stretch bands and foam rollers will help athletes perform high-level stunts and routines. The funds will be used to purchase the necessary equipment to create this conditioning room, which will benefit cheerleaders for years to come.

Budget Narrative:

• Strength and Conditioning Equipment ($957.97):
• VEVOR Plyometric Jump Box Set: $249
• LifePro Half Exercise Ball: $89.99
• Sportsroyals Power Tower Station: $269.99
• CAP Barbell Dumbbell Set: $189.99
• Stealth Core Deluxe Trainer: $159.00
• Flexibility and Mobility Tools ($894.76):
• Ankle Balance Board: $39.95
• Tumbl Trak Stunt Double Base Trainer: $319.98
• Tumbl Trak Base Trainer Single: $249.99
• Tumbl Trak Fly Right Trainer: $254.99
• Myosource Kinetic Band Cheer (x3): $9.95 each

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Website: Merit.Academy

Address: 500 E. Kelley's Road Woodland Park, CO

Grade Level: 6-11 Culinary Arts

Region: Central Mountains

Project Title: Merit Culinary Arts

Category: Vocational & Physical Education

Funding Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Merit Academy's Culinary Arts Program is a hands-on vocational program designed for students in 6th grade and up. The program provides industry certifications and real-world experiences in food preparation, catering, and culinary education. With 81 students currently enrolled, the program faces high costs, so any funding to support the continuation and enhancement of the educational experience is greatly appreciated. The funds requested will primarily go towards purchasing food products to facilitate hands-on learning, equipment, and additional resources for the program.

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Impact:
The Culinary Arts Program offers students valuable practical experience in the culinary industry, preparing them for future careers in food service and catering. Students will benefit from industry certifications and the opportunity to participate in fundraisers, such as bake sales and catering school events, helping them develop entrepreneurial skills while supporting the program. By acquiring new food products and equipment, the program can continue to provide students with hands-on experiences and maintain the high quality of culinary education at Merit Academy.

Use of Funds:
- Food Products: $1,500
- Equipment: $300
- Fundraiser Support: $200

Website: merit.academy

Address: 500 E. Kelley's Rd. Woodland Park, CO 80863

Grade Level: Welding Tech., Blacksmithing

Region: Central Mountains

Project Title: Trade Certification Pathways

Category: Vocational & Physical Education

Funding Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Merit Academy, located in rural Woodland Park, supports all career pathways and serves a diverse population of students passionate about trade education. We focus on equipping both boys and girls with trade skills critical to building America's future. As a small school, we are committed to providing accessible trade education without passing the cost on to students. We seek funds for our welding program so our future trade professionals (students) can obtain the technical skills needed to earn industry-recognized certifications. Like many trade programs, welding education is costly due to materials and equipment. The funds requested will help supply each student with welding consumables and resources needed for success. By funding this project, you will empower students with valuable, hands-on skills that open doors to stable, high-demand careers.

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Impact:
Merit Academy is dedicated to supporting students on all career paths, particularly in the field of trade work. Our district not only recognizes the pivotal role of skilled trades in shaping America's future but is also unwavering in its commitment to offering accessible trade education to all students, irrespective of their financial background. As a small school, we are determined to remove financial barriers that might hinder students from pursuing careers in the trades. The high cost of welding education, including specialized materials, equipment, and safety gear, exceeds our current budget. Your support in funding our welding classroom will enable us to equip students with the necessary materials to master this trade and earn industry-recognized certifications, paving the way for immediate entry into the workforce upon graduation.

Use of Funds:
For the funding request, the greatest need to keep students learning hands-on is welding consumables like welding rods. We obtain other materials via donation but have a daily demand to consume other materials. Your generous funding of $2000 will significantly enhance the learning experience of our 30 students across multiple classes, providing them with (9) 50 lb. boxes of LINCOLN ELECTRIC Stick Electrode: E7018 welding rods.

Teacher: Sarah Schaller
School: Sargent High School
District: Sargent RE-33J
District Website: Sargent High School
School Address: 7090 N. Road 2 E. Monte Vista, Colorado 81144
Grade Level: 9-12th Grade- Agriculture
Region: San Luis Valley
Project Title: Cat CPR and Vocational Vets
Category: Vocational & Physical Education
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Sargent School District is located in the heart of potato fields, fittingly represented by the Farmers as their mascot. Nearly half of the high school students are enrolled in agriculture classes, and over 35 students are involved in the FFA chapter. A significant number of students are passionate about veterinary and animal sciences. With funding, they will have the opportunity to practice essential veterinary skills using a Feline Vet Trainer model, allowing them to gain hands-on experience. This resource will greatly benefit the school's Vet Science Team and other students interested in pursuing careers in veterinary sciences for years to come.

The Feline Vet Trainer is produced by RealityWorks and offers realistic, hands-on practice with cat care skills. Students will have the opportunity to practice CPR, venipuncture, injections, blood draws, and catheterization. With moveable limbs, students can also learn restraint and positioning techniques. The trainer includes a standards-based curriculum, making it an invaluable resource for the vet sciences program.

Budget Breakdown:

• Feline Vet Trainer from RealityWorks: $1,999

The requested $2,000 will cover the full cost of the Feline Vet Trainer, enabling students to enhance their veterinary skills.

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School Website: calhanschool.org

Project Description:
Darren Kelly is requesting a grant to supply Calhan High School's new Wood Shop with essential tools that will allow students to design and build projects, applying their knowledge of math, art, construction, and finishing techniques. Calhan High School, located east of Colorado Springs, serves 140 students. With limited subject offerings in a small school setting, this Wood Shop provides a rare and exciting opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience. Darren's passion for woodworking comes from his personal experience, and he hopes to inspire his students to tackle projects in their own lives, from home improvement to potential career paths.

Project Proposal:
The Wood Shop at Calhan High School is well-equipped with some great facilities and larger tools, but it lacks hand tools and smaller power tools needed to complete professional woodworking projects. These tools will allow students to refine their skills and build detailed, polished projects. Darren hopes the course will instill confidence in students, enabling them to apply what they learn to solving real-world problems in their homes or careers. This project will provide students with a valuable learning experience that will serve them for years to come.

Budget Narrative:

• Safety Glasses
• Band Saw Blades
• 48" Aluminum Straight Edge
• Center Punch
• Nail Set
• Adjustable Router Jig
• Drill Bit Set
• Feather Board
• Table Saw Push Block
• Glue, Clamps, and Other Essential Hand Tools
• Power Tools: DeWalt Miter Saw Stand, DeWalt Scroll Saw and Stand, Random Orbit Router, Plunge Router, Drill and Driver Sets
• Various Other Tools and Supplies

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Teacher: Alex Adams
School: Eaton High School
District: Eaton School District
District Website: https://www.eaton.k12.co.us/eatonhighschool
School Address: 1661 Collins St, Eaton CO 80615
Grade Level: High School Business
Region: Northeast
Project Title: Access to DECA State Success
Category: Vocational & Physical Education
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Eaton High School, located in a small rural town, is home to a dynamic group of DECA students striving for excellence in business and leadership. We request $2,000 to cover the registration fees for our DECA members who qualify to compete at the State Leadership Conference in Colorado Springs. This conference is an incredible opportunity for students to network and develop their skills at a higher level, but the cost can be prohibitive. By securing these funds, we can ensure all qualified students have the chance to participate, regardless of financial barriers, and help them realize their full potential in business leadership.

Proposal:
Eaton High School's DECA program plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of business leaders in our rural community. However, the costs associated with attending the DECA State Leadership Conference can be a significant obstacle for many students. We are seeking $2,000 to cover the registration fees for all qualifying members, alleviating a major financial barrier.

Our goal is to empower every qualifying DECA student to participate fully in this amazing experience, where they will not only compete but also connect with peers from across the state, learn from industry professionals, and gain invaluable leadership skills. Last year, 13 students attended the conference, and we aim to achieve similar or higher numbers of participation this year.

This funding, combined with our own ongoing fundraising efforts, will ensure that our DECA members have equal access to this critical educational opportunity, promoting equity and inclusion in our school's extracurricular activities. Supporting this project will directly impact the students of Eaton, enabling them to pursue their academic and professional dreams without financial constraints.

Budget Breakdown:
The requested grant of $2,000 will be used to reduce the financial burden on Eaton High School's DECA students who qualify to compete at the DECA State Leadership Conference in Colorado Springs. The funds will be applied in a way that ensures all participating students benefit equally.

Use of Funds:

• Conference Registration Fees - The grant funds will first be equally distributed among all qualifying DECA members to offset their registration fees, which are $175 per student. By dividing the $2,000 equally, each student will receive substantial financial assistance.
• Hotel Costs - If any funds remain after covering a portion of the registration fees, they will be applied toward hotel costs for the students.

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Teacher: Melissa Achziger
School: Eaton High School
District: Eaton Weld Re-2
District Website: www.eaton.k12.co.us
School Address: 1661 Collins Street, Eaton, CO 80615
Grade Level: 9-12th
Region: Northeast
Project Title: Build Future Plant Scientists
Category: Vocational & Physical Education
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
The Eaton High School Horticulture Science class will become future plant scientists through the use of high-tech equipment in their labs. Eaton High School serves around 575 students, with 203 enrolled in the Agricultural Education department, and 27 of those participating in the Horticultural Sciences and Greenhouse Production class. This funding will provide students with hands-on experience using industry-standard technology, which will enhance their understanding of plant science and better prepare them for careers in horticulture, agronomy, and related fields.

Proposal:
This project will allow students to conduct plant science experiments using advanced equipment aligned with the CASE (Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education) curriculum. Students will gain experience with tools that test soil pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and other factors that impact plant growth. Through these hands-on experiments, students will deepen their understanding of plant production, anatomy, and physiology, developing skills that will serve them in their future careers.

Budget Breakdown:

The grant will cover the purchase of Vernier sensors and materials for experiments, as outlined below:

• Vernier GDX-CO2 Go Direct CO2 Gas Sensor: $225.00
• Vernier GDX-CON Go Direct Conductivity Sensor: $129.00
• Vernier GDX-ODO Go Direct Dissolved Oxygen Sensor: $369.00
• Vernier GDX-GP Go Direct Gas Pressure Sensor: $99.00
• Vernier GDX-SVISPL Go Direct Spectrovis Plus Spectrophotometer: $459.00
• Vernier GDX-TMP Go Direct Temperature Sensor (2 units): $156.00
• Vernier GDX-FPH Go Direct Tris-Compatible Flat pH Sensor (3 units): $402.00
• Vernier VSP-FIBER Spectrophotometer Optical Fiber: $79.00
• Vernier GDX-CRG Go Direct Charge Station: $89.00
• Vernier PH-BUFCAP pH Calibration Buffer Capsules: $34.00
• Vernier PH-SS pH Sensor Storage Solution: $20.00

Total: $1,999.17 (reflecting a 3% discount through the CASE website)

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Teacher: Brian Baker
School: Wiggins High School
District: Wiggins RE-50
District Website: Wiggins RE-50
School Address: 201 Tiger Way, Wiggins, CO 80654
Grade Level: Business 9-12
Region: Northeast
Project Title: Crafting Futures with Lasers
Category: Vocational & Physical Education
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Wiggins High School seeks to purchase an xTool F1 2-in-1 Dual Laser Engraver for its business education program. The goal of this project is to introduce students to cutting-edge technology and provide hands-on experience in design, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. By using this engraver, students will gain practical skills in product development and learn about the business aspects of bringing products to market. The project will empower students by fostering creativity and providing them with the tools needed to explore potential career paths in business, engineering, or the arts.

As a rural school with limited resources, this project will provide students with access to modern technology, which is typically more accessible in urban areas. The xTool F1 will help bridge the gap between rural education and the broader opportunities found in larger cities, preparing students for future success in today's workforce.

Budget Breakdown:

xTool F1 2-in-1 Dual Laser Engraver: $2,000
Total Request: $2,000

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Teacher: Scott Schwartz
School: Wray Junior Senior High School
District: Wray RD-2
District Website: wrayschools.org
School Address: 30160 CR 35, Wray, CO 80758
Grade Level: 7-12
Region: Northeast
Project Title: Supplies for Industrial Arts
Category: Vocational & Physical Education
Amount Requested: $1,500

Project Description:
We are looking to purchase new tools to replace worn-out ones and wood to enhance the experience of the students and to also give them more options when building their projects. Some students can't afford to purchase wood for their projects.

Project Justification:
We currently have 50 students in industrial arts. Our tool selection is limited, and students have to wait for a tool when others are using them. We are needing to replace tools such as hammers, screwdrivers, drill bits, etc. By having enough tools for all students, we can keep everyone working and avoid delays in learning.

Budget Breakdown:
We will use these funds to replace and purchase new tools for students to use while building projects. We want to ensure we have enough tools to keep everyone working and not waiting for a tool.

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Website: www.dt26j.com

Address: 130 S. 2nd Ave, P.O. Box 129, Deer Trail, CO 80105

Grade Level: Grades 8-12 - CTE: Ag Education

Region: Northeast

Project Title: Hands-On Farm Learning Boost

Category: Vocational & Physical Education

Funding Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
I am requesting funds to improve our school farm, where students care for goats, bees, a rabbit, and chickens to extend their learning beyond the classroom. Located in Deer Trail, Colorado, our school experienced rapid growth in 2020 after a large development was added to town. This growth has stretched our resources thin as we adapt. Many of our students come from urban areas and appreciate experiencing rural life through our ag program. Funding this project will allow us to improve equipment and educational tools for caring for our animals. These responsibilities teach students valuable life skills, giving them confidence and a sense of ownership in a supportive environment.

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Impact:
This project will allow students to participate in hands-on activities, including beekeeping with proper safety gear, improving the rabbit enclosure, and enhancing our chicken coop. These upgrades will give students the opportunity to practice animal husbandry, sustainability, and biosecurity practices. Additionally, these experiences will teach responsibility, teamwork, and valuable life skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Use of Funds:
- Bee Suits (4 suits): $320
- Honey Harvesting Equipment: $400
- Outdoor Chicken Fencing Supplies: $250
- Outdoor Rabbit Space Fencing & Hutch: $350
- Bedding and Miscellaneous Farm Supplies: $300
- Unexpected expenses: $380

Website: wrayschools.org

Address: 30160 CR 35, Wray, CO 80758

Grade Level: Ag Education Grades 9-12

Region: Northeast

Project Title: Greenhouse Startup

Category: Vocational & Physical Education

Funding Amount Requested: $1,672

Project Description:
Wray High School, with just over 200 students, has recently constructed a new greenhouse for the ag program. This initiative aims to provide students with industry certifications in plant science while offering them a hands-on learning experience growing plants. At the end of the year, students plan to host a greenhouse sale to create a self-sustaining project after the initial startup costs. The goal is to use quality materials from the start to give students practical experience in both plant science and agricultural business. The funds will help purchase soil, containers, seeds, and plugs, ensuring that students can begin their project with confidence and a high-quality product to sell to the community.

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Impact:
The greenhouse will allow students to earn industry certifications and work on agriscience fair projects. The project will empower students by providing hands-on experience in both horticulture and ag business, with the ultimate goal of hosting a successful plant sale. This sale will build students' confidence as they present their work to the community. The funds raised from the sale will be reinvested into the greenhouse project, enabling it to become self-sustaining and possibly profitable in the future.

Use of Funds:
The funds will be used to purchase the following materials:

• 200 Planting Trays: $242.88
• 200 Deep Cell Trays: $160
• 100 - 6 Pack 8 Inserts: $78.32
• 100 - 6 Pack 6 Inserts: $78.32
• 100 Sheet 3in Pots: $110
• 50 Sheet 4in Pots: $129.80
• 50 10in Hanging Baskets: $88
• 50 Hangers (17in): $33.44
• 50 Hangers (22in): $49.72
• 39 bags (78cy ft) of soil: $700.83

School Website: mcsd.org

Project Description:
Kyle Miller teaches Industrial Arts (shop) to 6th-8th grade students at Centennial Middle School in Montrose, Colorado. His 8th grade students work on an exciting and popular project: making epoxy resin tables. These projects not only generate enthusiasm in the classroom but also provide students with valuable hands-on experience in the construction trade. The goal is to inspire some students to pursue further education and careers in the trades, which are in high demand. This project provides students with the skills to create aesthetically beautiful yet functional pieces of furniture, while learning essential skills that can shape their future career paths.

Project Proposal:
The funding request of $2,000 will be used to purchase epoxy resin, which has become more expensive. This resin is essential for the tables the students build, and the funds will allow the school to provide these materials without passing the cost onto students. With over 50% of the student population qualifying for free and reduced lunch, this funding will help ensure that all students can participate in the project, regardless of their financial background. The epoxy resin tables are not only in high demand but also serve as a unique learning experience, teaching students valuable skills they can carry into future careers.

Budget Narrative:
The full $2,000 will be used to purchase enough epoxy resin for one semester's worth of projects.

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