Leadership D51

Understand the big picture. Explore D51’s mission and vision, our five-year strategic plan, and district operations.

• Meet the people behind the work. Learn directly from staff supporting students and schools.
• Build community connections. Get to know parents, professionals, and community members who share your commitment to strong public schools.
• Find your way to contribute. Discover opportunities to support students, strengthen partnerships, and become a more informed district advocate.

If you care about our schools and want to play a bigger role in their success, we encourage you to apply.

Leadership D51 welcomes current D51 parents, aspiring community leaders, working professionals, nonprofit employees, district advocates, and community members eager to learn and get involved.

Most sessions follow a lunch-session format from 12:00 - 1:30 p.m in the Harry Butler Board Room located inside R-5 High School.

April features a special half-day experience.

Please commit to all eight sessions. Missing two or more? Apply for 2027-2028

Application deadline: Friday, October 9, 2026

Attendance commitment: Applicants are asked to commit to all seven program sessions, including the April half-day. If you know you will miss two or more sessions, please plan to apply for the 2027–2028 cohort.

Location: Standard sessions meet in the Harry Butler Board Room, 455 N. 22nd St., Grand Junction, CO 81501. The April experience takes participants inside D51 schools.

Application and lunch: Applying is free, and lunch is provided during each program session.

Depending on application volume, we may be unable to accept every applicant into the 2026–2027 cohort. Every effort will be made to connect applicants with an opportunity to partner with a school or the district.

Selection considers:

• Evidence of leadership.
• Interest in future D51 family or community partnership opportunities, or in advocating on behalf of the district.
• Commitment to D51’s core beliefs:
  • D51 focuses on the whole learner to foster growth and high achievement.
  • D51 believes in the strength of our people, our schools, and our communities.
  • D51 values individuality, inclusivity, and belonging.
  • D51 commits to continuous improvement.

Your perspective belongs in the conversation.

Take the next step toward a deeper connection with your public schools.