Over the last four years, DPSF awarded an average of $2.5 million to $3 million in grants. According to Moore, these contributions addressed a variety of different needs.
"When we found lead and copper in the water fountains, we helped those fundraising efforts by putting $3 million to get water hydration stations in every school," Moore said. "Then when COVID-19 hit, and when we knew the schools were going to close, we started having conversations about how we were going to get our children tablets and helping them overcome bad internet."
With children removed from the classroom and as some families struggled financially, the COVID-19 pandemic made it difficult for the organization to fulfill its mission. Despite the obstacles, DPSF's effort persevered.
"COVID-19 almost wiped out every improvement we had made," Moore said. "But our team of great leaders was committed, and we stayed in lockstep with the district because we are always there to serve."
DPSF currently has six full-time staff members. Considering the organization raised approximately $23 million to provide students with tablets, better internet and technical support to combat the challenges of remote learning, its recurring achievements are impressive.
"These kinds of accomplishments were never seen before," Moore said. "We have a strong partnership with the district, an alignment with the district and are taking on some really big challenges as we work to find that external funding."
As DPSCD continues to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, Moore wants to spread the word about the opportunities and challenges students experience every day.
"Some of these young people are doing fantastic things," Moore said. "They all have potential, but they need resources. The plan for the future is to get back to normal and get back on track in terms of student performance and look for how we can create new partnerships."
Aside from the students, prioritizing the well-being of teachers is at the top of Moore's to-do list.
"Teachers are so great. They're on the front lines and aren't paid enough," Moore said. "They have to do so much more than teach a lesson. We're finding professional development opportunities for them, too."
Connecting schools and programs to supporters is a functional pillar of the foundation. With a vast DPSCD alumni network, Moore sees an opportunity to bring the community even closer together.
"There are hundreds of thousands of alumni still walking the earth. I want them to know what these young people need," Moore said. "I want them to know all the accomplishments of these young people, how smart they are and what their hopes and dreams are so they can be supported."
To learn more about how to donate or support DPSF, visit
dpsfdn.org
.