What began with a $2,000 community-funded opportunity for two Park City students to attend a Stanford University space camp became the first grant in 1986, planting the seeds for what became the Park City Education Foundation.
A lot has changed since 1986.
Today – 40 years later – that single grant has grown into an organization that contributes nearly $2 million annually to our schools, funding initiatives and programs across Park City schools.
The idea behind PCEF remains simple yet strong: give Park City students and educators more – a head start, hands-on learning, connection, access, room to explore, and a chance to discover what they love.
Parents want the best for their own kids. In Park City, we also know our community is stronger when we set the bar high for all kids. For 40 years, this community has come together to elevate education and make more possible for every student.
Park City parents and students have shared what PCEF-funded programs have meant to them – in their own words.
A Head Start
“The teachers are engaging, excited, and welcome the students each day with a warm smile. Preschool has helped create the foundation for our children to become increasingly independent, excited about school, and lifelong learners. We appreciate having all these things in place and know our kids are having a great time with people we trust.”
-Jessica Huser, Parent, Jeremy Ranch Elementary Preschool
Learning by Doing
“This is the best use of PCEF funds I have ever witnessed, hands down. Incredible way to learn STEM principles and how to work collaboratively. My child loved the entire semester and every student out on the course was having a blast.”
-Sharon Wallace, Parent, Elementary RC Race & Engineering League
Keeping Families Connected
“I went to Parley’s, so having my kids there now feels very nostalgic. As a longtime local, I also appreciate the importance of affordable after school care in keeping families like ours within the district.”
-Erin Price-Proctor, Parent, Afterschool
Closing the Opportunity Gap
“The most meaningful thing about Bright Futures will be to achieve my dream of getting a degree as a first-generation college student."
-Maia Abonce, Student, Class of 2026
Seeing a Future
“My son has never been as excited for school as he is on the days of his aviation classes. He talks more about his aviation classes than the rest of his classes combined, and it’s 100% positive. He truly wishes to pursue a career in aviation.”
-Parent, Aviation
Discovering What You Love
“Growing up in a community where music and arts experiences are equally accessible to all students taught me not everyone is given the same opportunities, which is a fact I do not take for granted.”
-Finn McGuire, Student, Class of 2026
40 Years Later
The programs have evolved. The community has grown. The first $2,000 grant has grown exponentially. But 40 years later, the same intent remains. The Park City community values education and PCEF’s mission to fund and support educator-powered initiatives that inspire all Park City students to reach their academic and lifelong potential.
Thank you to our community for walking beside us for 40 years. If you contributed to PCEF’s Annual Family Appeal to Build the Foundation this fall – thank you, we are grateful! If you would like to donate, there are more opportunities to support PCEF during this season of giving: join or renew Scholar Circle, purchase tickets to attend the Red Apple Gala, or donate during Live PC Give PC.
