The Buffalo Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) was established in 2006 by THS faculty, (retired/active) and alumni that recognized a significant lack in funding for resources and school-based activities. The Foundation was established and through a grant application process, provides financial assistance for school-related activities, including academic, music, art, cultural, athletics, and more. These funds cannot be used where district monies are available. The foundation also offers two events where THS Alumni, faculty, and staff come together to maintain contact with the herd. One event has been the traditional annual Buffalo Round-Up held at Bogeys Sports Bar & Grill, usually held in mid-October. The other is the Buffalo Classic Golf Tournament held each year in early April. Another proud board event is the Veteran’s Breakfast we co-sponsor. It is held in the Tempe High cafeteria every year.
The foundation’s board decided to amplify its efforts and have expanded its vision and outreach. The 2023 school year at Tempe High set a record-breaking year for grant applicants. Grant totals for 2023 exceeded $15,000. The board has recently focused on academic performance and teacher retention as a new campaign. It is common knowledge throughout the state that teachers spend their hard-earned dollars to provide much-needed academic supplies (notebooks, paper, pencils, pens, etc.). The foundation gave every THS teacher a $100 bill to help them with this financial burden. We intend to make next school year’s gift even larger. Student achievement was an area the board also has been helping the administration with. We can proudly say the foundation assisted THS’ student achievement score in going from a “D” performance school to a “B+” performance school. We hope to help THS lift their achievement grade to an “A” by the end of 2025. This can only be accomplished by retaining and supporting our teachers, also providing an atmosphere that engages our students. Therefore, the Tempe High Buffalo Foundation is implementing the Ira Fulton Family Annual Scholarship Fund. Your support will determine the number of student scholarships and the amounts we can provide each year.
Many folks in the Tempe area do not realize the financial disparity and socioeconomic challenges that THS students face. We have the highest “student homelessness” rate of any high school in the district. To help compensate for this disparity, the foundation has partnered with the THS Administration and implemented a program that provides backpacks, clothing, school supplies, and food for ANY student who needs our help. These resources are free to the children and have had a significant boost in student morale, attendance, and academic achievement.
Please consider a donation to assist the foundation in its mission.
