Ski 4 Schools helps kids in Central Oregon fulfill their athletic dreams, no matter how big or small

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- The Bend-LaPine Education Foundation is celebrating 20 years of continued partnership with Mt. Bachelor and the Ski 4 Schools program. This popular program offers discounted tickets to skiers and snowboarders and directs the proceeds to local area schools in Bend and Redmond.

Tickets for the 2025 season sold out in a record 24 hours and raised $26,250 to support the Bend-La Pine Education Foundation Activity Fee Scholarship program.

“Ski 4 Schools is more than just a fundraiser,” said John Merriman, Mt. Bachelor President & General Manager. “It’s a way for the community to rally around our love for recreation in all its forms. School sports have a powerful way of shaping habits and instilling confidence in youth. We’re proud to partner with the Bend-LaPine Education Foundation to provide scholarships so students can experience the benefits of being active and practicing teamwork.”

Since 2005, Mt. Bachelor has generously donated over $200,000 to support students in Bend-LaPine Schools through the Education Foundation's Activity Fee Scholarship program. Each year, the program funds approximately 280 student activity fees for OSAA-sanctioned sports and activities at middle schools and high schools in the district. 

“The Ski 4 Schools program is one of the Foundation’s most impactful and long-standing programs, and allows all students the opportunity to participate in school sports and activities. We are grateful for the partnership with Mt. Bachelor and their generous commitment to our students and families,” said Michele Emery, board president of the Education Foundation. 

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About the Bend-La Pine Education Foundation

Started in 1988, the Bend-La Pine Education Foundation is an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit composed of parents, community leaders, educators, and citizens who share the belief that a vibrant public school system is essential to the social and economic well-being of our community. The Foundation mobilizes community resources to fund innovative academic STEM, art, music and wellness programs that go beyond normal school funding at the 36 schools within the Bend-La Pine School District. Other programs include Activity Fee Scholarships, Latinx Scholarships and Perseverance Scholarships. 

Learn more about the Foundation in our 2023-24 Annual Report: https://www.blpedfoundation.org/annual-reports