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About Us

ABOUT US

Who We Are

The Desert Sands Educational Foundation (DSEF) is a nonprofit partner of the Desert Sands Unified School District, dedicated to enriching educational opportunities for more than 25,00 students across 34 schools.

We connect our community to our classrooms, serving as a bridge between local partners and our schools to turn support into meaningful programs, resources, and experiences that help students succeed both in and out of the classroom.

Our Vision

To bridge gaps, open doors, and create opportunities, ensuring every Desert Sands Unified School District student has the tools to thrive.

Our Approach: Community in Action

We belive education is a shared responsibility. Through partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and donors, we fund programs that support students and turn community investment into measurable impact. From academic profifiency and wellness to career readyiness, we expand opportunities so students can thrive.

Our History

The Desert Sands Educational Foundation (DSEF) was first established in 1991 and later revitalized in March 2012, when it regained its tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (Tax ID# 33-0452541). Since then, the Foundation has been dedicated to providing financial, educational, and community resources to ensure that every student in the Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD) has access to the full benefits of an excellent education, opportunities that extend beyond what state funding alone can provide.

While its early efforts focused on bringing technology into classrooms across the five cities served by DSUSD, the Foundation’s work has since expanded to support all aspects of a high-quality education.

Fast Facts About DSUSD

DSUSD Community Report 2024-2025

Board Members

The Foundation is guided by an all-volunteer, working Board of Directors. While operating independently from the District, in 2019, the District created the position of Director of Community Engagement and Educational Foundation to serve under the Superintendent and act as a liaison between the District and the DSEF Board.

Lisa Bostjanick

President

Stefan Pejovic

Vice President

Brian McGuire

Treasurer

Miriam Silva

Secretary

Shawn Abramowitz

Board Member

Nicole Aguirre

Board Member

Sheri Hanes

Board Member

Orli Presser

Board Member

Ashley Schantz

Board Member

Caroline Sofonio

Board Member

Austin Wasserman

Board Member

Francinni Zabata

Director