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Donor Profiles

Gerald Anderson

Gerald Anderson has a rich history with Denver Public Schools. He is an alumnus, a career DPS educator, and now a long-time supporter of the Denver Public Schools Foundation. Gerald says he contributes to the DPS Foundation because the community supported him so strongly throughout his education and career in Denver Public Schools. He finds it important to give back to the teachers and students in those same classrooms today.

“The Foundation supports so many programs that help students in DPS succeed,” says Gerald. “Looking at the graduation rates, there is some work to be done in our schools. Supporting the DPS Foundation helps these programs thrive and helps our students succeed and graduate.”

Gerald graduated from DPS, starting in the classrooms of Gilpin Elementary and Eagleton before moving on to Lake Jr. High School and graduating from West High School in 1954.

"I always liked school, and did well in my classes,” he says. “In the fifth grade, I made the decision that I wanted to be a teacher. I was inspired by many of my teachers in Denver Public Schools and had wonderful role models. When I graduated, I was awarded a scholarship to the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, where I pursued a teaching degree.”

Upon graduation, Gerald returned to DPS and taught for several years before taking a leave from the classroom to serve in the Air National Guard. After his military service, he returned and taught classes – including special education for the hearing impaired – at Evans and Carson Elementary schools. Gerald retired in 1992 and now lives in Arvada.

“It’s important that we all continue helping the children of the future,” says Gerald. “There are so many good teachers and good principals in Denver Public Schools. I want to help support them as I was supported for so many years – so that they can reach these kids and help more and more of them succeed.”

Please join Gerald in his support for the students, teachers and principals of Denver Public Schools. Click here to donate to the DPS Foundation.