The Jefferson County Education Excellence Fund

Background Statement

Following the Columbine tragedy in 1999, thousands of dollars poured into the JCEA office. Many of the contributions came from state and local associations, businesses, individual teachers and concerned citizens across the nation.

Often they came requesting something positive be done for Jeffco teachers in memory of Columbine teacher Dave Sanders.

In August of 1999, the JCEA Board of Directors responded by expanding and refocusing the former JCEA Christa Mcauliffe Scholarship Fund, an educator and one of the seven crew members killed in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster. The scholarship fund became a 501-c3 entity and was renamed The JCEA Excellence Fund. Today, the JCEA Excellence Fund is administered by The JCEA Excellence Fund Committee which consists of both Jeffco educators and community members.

Today, We have the following scholarships and awards:

JCEA EXCELLENCE FUND-This annually awarded scholarship goes to a Jefferson County high school senior entering college the following year to pursue a degree in education. Each scholarship granted is for $1000 per year and can be renewed for up to four years

The Shermita West Student of Color Scholarship

Shermita West made history in Jeffco as the first woman of color to become President of JCEA. This scholarship honors her legacy by offering $1000 to a student of color in Jeffco Public Schools pursuing a college education.

DAVE SANDERS QUALITY TEACHING GRANT CEA -annually awards two $500 grants, to Jefferson County educators striving to improve their professional practice.

SUE ANNE BERGER EXCELLENCE FUND- Sue Anne Berger was an American Secondary education educator, chemist. Certified chemistry and mathematics teacher in the state of Colorado. With her passing she established an annual scholarship be awarded to two graduating seniors in the Jeffco District, who intends to study the physical sciences or related fields. Each scholarship granted starts with a $1000 and is increased by $1000 each year, up to four years.

It is our goal this year to raise over $6,000.00 for these scholarships. Our first ask is that our AR’s and members participate this year in “The day of giving”

Please watch for information through email and social media. We encourage all to share it on social media, pass out the flyers, and encourage friends and family to donate to this great cause that helps educators, future educators, and JeffCo students.