for the Durango School District
Innovation,Excellence &Achievement
going beyond the basics
Since 1984 we have funded what the district budget can't: classroom grants, scholarships and programs for Pre-K through Grade 12 in Durango School District 9-R.
The only fundraising organization for all of Durango's public schools.
Every gift funds the Durango Education Foundation's grants, scholarships, and service programs that benefit Durango School District students.
Your gift funds
- Classroom grants
- Scholarships
- Programs and technology
Find your way in
- For teachers and staffApply for a classroom grantGrants are open to any teacher, staff member or administrator in Durango School District (DSD).Fall grant applications due November 2nd
- For students and familiesFind a scholarshipBrowse the available scholarships and learn how to apply.
- For everyoneCome to an eventSpirits with the Spectres, the Pat Murphy Golf for Education Tournament, resource fairs and more.
- For volunteersInterested in Volunteering?Help at an event or on a committee. (opens in a new tab)
Good Things Happening at DEF:
Spirits with the Spectres
$45,000
Thank you, 2026 supporters, for raising $45,000 for our public schools!
A walking tour of Durango's most haunted places, presented with Horsefly History.
Save the date: 10/16/27
Pat Murphy Golf for Education TournamentSee all events
Volunteers and staff for Durango's public schools since 1984.
Founded in 1984 as a single scholarship fund*, The Durango Education Foundation (D.E.F.) has developed, through wise stewardship, into a valued resource for Durango School District. Pre-K through grade 12 teachers, as well as school staff and administrators, receive D.E.F. encouragement and support for programs, materials, and technology needs outside the capacity of the regular district budget. Please visit our What We Do page for a more in-depth look at what D.E.F. does in our community.
The Durango Education Foundation is a valued partner of the Durango School District but is a wholly independent 501 (c)(3) charitable non-profit.
* The Foundation was initially known as the Durango Foundation for Educational Excellence.
Our critical actions
Show up. Listen. Ask. Communicate. Thank.
To elevate Durango 9-R education so that our students, educators, and community can thrive.
Read our guiding principles