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“It’s beautiful to be bilingual.”For Dr. Bianca Gallegos, these words are more than a statement—they’re a call to action. As an Impact on Education board member and Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships for Boulder Valley School District (BVSD), Gallegos works to ensure that bilingual students are seen, valued and celebrated.

In 2024, educators and students across the Boulder Valley School District (BVSD) gained vital support through $98,500 in grant funding from the Impact on Education Academic Opportunity Fund. These grants bridge educational gaps and foster innovative programs that enrich learning and promote equity.

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.”

As 2024 draws to a close, our team has been reflecting on what we’ve achieved this year through the power of our community. We’re proud to share our 10 most popular blog posts — each capturing a unique moment of impact.

Years after Carol L’Orange retired from teaching first grade at Superior Elementary, a former student spotted her in the aisles of King Soopers. Now a teenager, he approached hesitantly. “Ms. L’Orange, do you remember me?” he asked. Carol smiled and assured him she did. Their conversation was heartfelt and full of gratitude—a small moment that encapsulated the profound, lifelong impact she had on her students

Karen Brown’s transition from the small, supportive town of Grand Lake, Colorado, to the bustling campus of the University of Colorado Boulder could have been overwhelming. But with the encouragement of her parents and a strong educational foundation, she thrived, shaping her belief in the transformative power of quality education and community support.

Our Board of Directors plays an important role in our work to engage students and empower educators across the Boulder Valley School District. Four new Board Members – Bob Gaddis, Dr. Bianca Gallegos, Emily Mears and David Stewart – will support this work and further our mission.

Globalization and the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a new world of work that has only been exacerbated by AI, gig work and technological leaps. To succeed, students need flexible skills that will allow them to shift and grow in an ever-changing economy. Experts say in order to succeed, students need to start thinking about the world of work far earlier than previous generations. This is why we provide students access to an after-school program, the Career Readiness Academy, that embraces this fluid approach to career preparation. This year the program will be offered to 10th graders at Boulder High, Broomfield High and Centaurus High, and parts of the curriculum will also be available to students at Arapahoe Ridge.

Born and raised in Washington, Georgia—a small town of about 5,000 people—Impact on Education board member Ann Cooper grew up facing the challenges of poverty, a segregated school system and limited opportunities. Thanks to the encouragement of several teachers, but two particular ones, Ann defied the odds, traveled the world, grew a successful business and has become a passionate advocate for quality public education for all students.