The Opportunity Fund is a flexible support fund dedicated to increasing extra-curricular and co-curricular program access for students and families in the Hood River County School District who face financial, linguistic, geographical, or other barriers.
HRCEF works with the school district and community partners to identify and and address current and emerging needs, funding a wide range of programs at all HRCSD schools with a focus on our elementary and middle schools.
Historically, the Opportunity Fund has supported an intramural middle school futsal league, a district-wide literacy program, and Red Cross CPR certifications for high school students.
Today, the fund supports diverse opportunities for students, including swim lessons, Arts in Education, music and athletic fee waivers, and scholarships for after-school care. In 2025, with support from the Farmer’s Conservation Alliance, HRCEF created Little Steps, Big Dreams, a program to help families of kindergartners start a 529 College Savings plan.
Use the menu links to explore current Opportunity Fund programs. All Opportunity Fund initiatives are funded by HRCEF and managed by the school district. If you have questions about how these programs can benefit your student, please contact your school staff.
Arts in Education
The Artist in Residence Program brings visual, performing, literary, and media arts directly into schools, giving students hands-on opportunities to explore creativity and self-expression, all led by professional artists. HRCEF provides grants to ensure all 1st and 3rd grade students in the school district can experience the joy of learning through art.
Little Steps, Big Dreams (529 College Savings Plan)
HRCEF matches the $100 Oregon provides when kindergarten parents open a 529 college savings plan with the Oregon Treasury — giving parents a $200 head start on savings for college. With regular contributions this fund will grow over time, allowing your child to use these funds tax-free for a vocational, two-year or four-year degree.
Athletic Fee Waivers
Students at Wy'East and Hood River Middle School have the opportunity to participate in a robust offering of fall, winter, and spring sports. Fees – up to $150 per year – can prevent students from participating. HRCEF offers need-based fee waivers to families so that all students can play sports with their peers.