More Than a School

Watershed is more than a school. It’s a community. It’s an experience. It’s an opportunity for transformational growth. Ask anyone who’s been involved, Watershed is all of these things and more. 

“Watershed sets up students for success and sets up our world to be a place that is filled with changemakers.” - Watershed Alum

And it takes all of us to make it happen. The people and programs of Watershed, supported annually by the Watershed Fund, build futures. Together, we build bright futures for our students, for our local community, and for communities beyond Colorado. Annual support of The Watershed Fund covers approximately 10% of our school’s annual operating expenses every year. Frankly, it’s a game changer. Real-world learning, favorable student:educator ratios, fieldwork, May Term & global travel, personalized college counseling, common good projects – all of the things that set Watershed apart from conventional school experiences; all of the things that allow our students to flourish – are only possible if The Watershed Fund is fully funded. We need to raise $300,000 this year to make it happen. That’s not an easy goal, but it’s an achievable goal. One that we can reach, together. 

"I support Watershed because it provides local families with the opportunity to offer their children an education focused on experiential learning and leadership. Away from windowless classrooms and learning for an exam, this school creates the space for students to engage in a deeper exploration of topics that are relevant to the world we live in today and thinking about their impact in the future" -Watershed Staff Member

Watershed inspires. Watershed connects. Watershed transforms. Watershed matters. Our school’s impact on individual student growth is significant and, importantly, ripples beyond the individual and beyond the walls of our school. 

"I support Watershed because of the life-changing, global experiences in which my children have participated.”  -Watershed Parent

An impactful education like Watershed’s requires an investment of time, an investment in people, and an investment of resources. It is made possible through the generous annual philanthropic support of parents, alumni, alumni parents, staff, and friends of the school. 

“Watershed is everything education should be - small classes sizes, student-driven, tailored learning, hands-on experiences - all with a focus on critical thinking that sets the foundation for life long learners. It’s a place where students learn to love learning, and that’s exactly what the world needs now.” - Watershed Alum

We are deeply grateful to all of the dedicated Watershed supporters in our midst! Thank you. 

We can achieve this school year’s $300,000 Watershed Fund goal, if we all pull together. We hope that Watershed will figure prominently in your family’s philanthropic planning during this season of giving. As a 501(c)(3), your gift to Watershed is tax deductible.

Ways to give to Watershed:

  • Write a check to Watershed School | 5405 Spine Rd. | Boulder, CO 80301

  • Make an online gift to the Watershed Fund on our Colorado Gives page linked here. 

  • To execute a wire transfer or ACH,  to give a gift of stock, or to discuss another way to give- contact  Julie, Director of Development & Communications here.


Why do Others choose to support Watershed?

“We support Watershed to promote community-based, student-focused, relevant private education.” -Friend of Watershed

“I support Watershed because I believe deeply in the school's mission. I believe in our talented, compassionate, and intelligent students doing work that matters for the common good. I believe in the curious, creative, and committed staff who live the mission each day.” -Staff Member

“We support Watershed because we believe deeply in the mission and share Watershed's values of curiosity and reflection through hands-on experiences and community building. The thoughtful, future-focused curriculum is the best way to prepare our children to tackle the greatest challenges of society.” - Parent

“I support Watershed because there is nothing more important in today's world than providing an education that enables students to be humane, thoughtful and well-prepared citizens.” -Member of the Board of Trustees

"I support Watershed because I believe that the best learning happens through real-life experiences. By engaging with their local community and beyond, Watershed empowers students to apply their coursework to the real-world situations they may face as adults.” - Parent

"I support Watershed because it’s a school that truly transformed my life. The rich, meaningful experiences I gained at the SHED broadened my perspective and ignited a lifelong curiosity about the world. The vibrant community at Watershed inspired me to explore the world and chase my dreams. I am forever grateful for the impact it has had on my journey. Watershed will always hold a special place in my heart—it will forever be my second home." -Alum

"I support Watershed because it ROCKS!"  -Parent


Why do YOU support Watershed School?