McAuliffe at Smiley Foundation

Similar to a PTA at other schools, the McAuliffe at Smiley Foundation is a non-profit organization with the mission to support McAuliffe’s amazing staff and students and fill gaps left by DPS funding.  Specifically, we focus on the following areas.

Improve our building infrastructure

Did you know that the building that houses McAuliffe International School is a Tudor style building designed by the architect George H. Williamson, who also designed East High School and other notable Denver buildings?  Smiley Junior High School was the building’s original resident, which was opened in 1928 and named after William H. Smiley who was a teacher, principal and Superintendent of DPS until 1924.  At nearly 100 years old, the building is a beautiful setting for learning - but it’s been through some things!

The McAuliffe at Smiley Foundation asks for your help updating our historic building.  Specifically, we would like to make improvements to important spaces like the teachers’ planning rooms, the library furniture, and even the bathrooms. We're also looking at ways to freshen up the building with some additional branding and art to showcase the rich history of the area and the building while modernizing and building school pride. 

Support our sports programs

McAuliffe is proud to offer a wide range of sports programs, but with so many teams, making sure every student has the right equipment can be a challenge. We support students who face financial hardships by providing gear like cleats, sports apparel, and help with fees, so all athletes can get out there and compete.  We are also looking to see if we can expand our offerings with additional funding and Foundation Support.

Assist students and their families with critical needs

Our Critical Needs team is in a unique position to know what our students need to succeed in school. That’s why we provide financial assistance with school fees, medical care or emergency funds, help with acquiring uniforms and school supplies and even groceries to take home to families.  By taking care of these immediate needs, we take care of our community, and help students focus on what matters most—doing their best in school.

Appreciate and support our amazing staff

McAuliffe has AMAZING teachers and staff, and they work HARD.  Your donations provide team-building breakfasts and lunches, professional development, appreciation packages at Thanksgiving and other ways to help our teachers support our students.

Provide educational trip scholarships

Every year, we sponsor 10-15 students for out-of-state school trips and in return, these students give back to the school and local community by volunteering. 

Colorado Gives Day is more than a day of giving. It is about celebrating the spirit of philanthropy that we share in Colorado. You can help the McAuliffe at Smiley Foundation this Colorado Gives Day with a gift and by helping us spread the word! All gifts to the McAuliffe at Smiley Foundation on Colorado Gives Day receive a boost from a $1.6 million statewide incentive fund, giving your donation even more impact. Every dollar raised makes our community stronger and gives our kids what they need to be successful! 

To further encourage giving, we have created an all-school House Competition.  The house with the highest NUMBER of donations will earn themselves a dress down day as a reward!  When you donate at the McAuliffe at Smiley Foundation page, indicate which HOUSE to credit with the donation.  Also, students are encouraged to make donations themselves with the Community Office.  All donations count, no matter the amount!