The DCS Montessori Educational Foundation (MEF) raises funds to support facility improvements and special projects at DCSM through various large-scale programs and events throughout the year. Monies raised are used for everything from new carpet and paint to continuing education scholarships for DCSM teachers.
The MEF Board of Directors is composed of current or past parents of students. The MEF is not part of the school but a separate nonprofit entity. For a closer look at the differences between the MEF, the school’s Board of Directors, and the School Accountability Committee (SAC), check out this document.
Recent Projects Your Support Has Helped Fund
- Update WiFi capacity for remote learning and increasing tech needs
- Increase Chromebooks on hand for lending and on-site use
- Support the development of new outdoor curriculum
- New gym floor
- New energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the school
- Construction of the middle school greenhouse
- Teacher training and scholarships
- New primary playground equipment and shade structures
- Garden Curriculum
- New Montessori materials
- New turf on the primary playgrounds
- Teacher Training
Last year, the MEF fundraising efforts purchased all new and powerful Chromebooks for the Tech Lab.
"I can't express enough how transformative the new Chromebooks funded by the MEF have been for our Technology classroom. These computers have enhanced the quality of the curriculum and opened up new avenues for student exploration and creativity. The new more powerful Chromebooks support the use of 3D printing & CAD software as well as Digital editing software. The students can now engage in more hands-on, interactive projects, allowing them to develop crucial digital skills in a dynamic learning environment. This investment has significantly boosted student engagement and enthusiasm for learning. I am deeply grateful for the MEF's support, and with continued contributions, we can keep providing our Montessori students with the resources to thrive in their learning journey.” - Ms. Maria Hannigan, DCS Technology Director and Educator
The MEF will continue to look to our exterior this year as it continues to help fund projects within the overall sustainable landscaping plan.
Current Goals
DCS Montessori is committed to upgrading and remodeling its landscaping with three key Sustainability goals:
1) Reducing watering by eliminating natural grass and replacing it with recycled content artificial turf
2) Increasing our tree planting with drip irrigation for shade, carbon footprint reduction, and continued beautification
3) Adding renewable energy sources and examining energy reduction strategies
The primary focus of our fundraising during the 2024-2025 school year is tackle the grass field along Castle Pines Parkway. The transformation will include:
- Planting trees along Castle Pines Parkway.
- Installing a paved track for wheeled activities (trikes, scooters, etc.).
- Installing turf to construct a mini soccer field.
These changes will allow the field to used more efficiently by more students while decreasing water usage, creating shade and a natural barrier to Castle Pines Parkway, and engaging the students of all ages in both individual and cooperative play.
Teacher training – DCS Montessori recognizes that recruiting and developing teachers is essential to DCS Montessori having a high-quality teaching staff–the most critical part of our school. This year we have two new teachers and one new administrator, who all received their training through MEF fundraising efforts. Training continues as two current staff in Assistant roles are in training right now, preparing to be the next teachers at DCS Montessori. This is part of MEF’s fundraising expenditures every year!
