From a first-generation student to a college freshman: Jair Ortega’s journey

Born and raised in Boulder, the University of Colorado campus loomed large in Jair Ortega’s life. To Jair, it was a symbol of opportunity, yet one that felt out of reach. Jair excelled in school, particularly in math, but tight family finances meant navigating the cost of education was a challenge from an early age. “I always thought college would be part of my story,” Jair said. “But the financial realities made it feel like something I’d never be able to afford.”

Thanks to his hard work and support from his parents, teachers, and Impact on Education, Jair not only made it to college—he is now a freshman at CU Boulder, with plans to double major in finance and economics.

Jair’s journey with Impact on Education began in elementary school at Whittier Elementary. Each year before the school year started, he visited a room filled with backpacks, carefully choosing one he liked. “The backpacks were always stocked with all the supplies I needed for the year,” Jair recalled. “That was a big deal for my family, and now I know Impact on Education provides those to around 5,000 Boulder Valley School District (BVSD) kids every year.”

In fifth grade, Impact on Education ensured Jair could attend the Cal-Wood field trip with his classmates, covering fees his family couldn’t afford. In high school, Impact on Education helped Jair pursue his advanced academic goals by covering the fees for AP exams and the CLEP test, enabling him to earn an impressive 12 college credits in Spanish proficiency.

Jair’s most life-changing opportunity came his senior year when he applied for the Houston Scholarship and received a $20,000 award distributed over four years. Established in 2023 by a generous Impact on Education supporter, the scholarship honors students who might not otherwise be able to attend college without the financial support of a scholarship.. “I didn’t think I had a chance,” Jair admitted. “When I got it, I was blown away. It took a huge weight off my shoulders and gave me the freedom to pursue my goals.”

Now on campus, Jair is learning to balance a new level of independence, from managing coursework to keeping his dorm clean. He credits Impact on Education not only for the scholarship but also for years of invisible support. “From elementary school through graduation, they’ve been there in ways I didn’t even realize until recently,” Jair said.

Jair’s story reflects Impact on Education’s mission to remove barriers and expand opportunities for BVSD students. Through programs like scholarships, school supplies and academic support, they remove barriers and empower students to reach their potential.

“Thanks to Impact on Education, I’m reaching for the stars,” Jair said. “One day, I hope I can give back and help other students the way they helped me.”

BEFORE YOU GO

Impact on Education is an independent non-profit supporting the Boulder Valley School District. We depend on the generosity of our community to put our mission into action.

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