#United States #Boulder #Colorado #education summit #Creative Educators Network

The Power of Story Event Celebrates Teachers and Storytelling in Colorado

On November 11, 2026, the Creative Educators Network (CEN) will host an extraordinary fundraising event named The Power of Story at eTown Hall in Boulder, Colorado. This special evening will celebrate the transformative power of storytelling while also honoring the educators and mentors who profoundly influence lives. All proceeds from this event will contribute directly to funding 30 Colorado public educators who will attend the inaugural Colorado Educators Summit scheduled at the Sundance Film Festival from January 27-29, 2027.

A Gathering of Inspirational Voices

During The Power of Story, attendees will witness the narratives of four prominent Colorado figures who will share their unique tales related to education and learning. Notable speakers will include Paige Doughty, co-founder of the nonprofit Rainbow Socks; Bill LeBlanc, Director at Tierra Resource Consultants; Stephen Brackett, a member of the celebrated band Flobots; and Brad Lidge, former MLB closer and accomplished archaeologist. Each speaker will bring their personal experiences to the stage, illustrating how educators shape and inspire students.

The event kicks off with a live performance by the talented Colorado singer-songwriter Ryan Dart. With his focus on storytelling through music, Dart embodies the evening’s theme and will set the stage for a night of impactful narratives.

Funding Educational Experiences

The funds raised during this event will enhance professional development for the selected educators who will partake in the Colorado Educators Summit. This summit will provide educators with valuable opportunities to engage in film screenings, share creative ideas, and network with professionals from the Colorado creative industry.

Josette Lorig, an educator from Vista PEAK Preparatory in Aurora, emphasizes the prevalence of storytelling in cultural exchanges and its essential role in shaping the future. The Summit is designed not just for educators, but for students too, empowering them to discover and share their unique stories through learning.

From a competitive application process that attracted over 80 applicants, 30 educators were chosen to participate in this pivotal program. Each dollar contributed will directly support their immersive experience, including film screenings, creative workshops, and networking sessions that can benefit their teaching methodologies.

Join the Movement

CEN encourages community members to get involved in various ways. Attendance to the event is open to all, and tickets cost $65. Donations, regardless of the amount, are welcomed and encouraged, as every contribution supports the creative workforce being built in Colorado.

Notably, a generous sponsorship of $5,000 will cover the entire summit experience for one teacher, showcasing how pivotal individual contributions can have a significant impact on educators and students alike.

By attending and donating, participants support Colorado's vibrant artistic community and help cultivate the future narrative voices emerging from the state’s classrooms. This initiative not only strengthens educator development but, by extension, enriches the learning experience for every student influenced by these dedicated teachers.

Creative Educators Network (CEN) is devoted to linking innovative teachers with industry-led professional development, fostering the growth of the creative workforce in Colorado. Their visions and efforts are ultimately geared toward creating a community where creativity flourishes through education, propelling future generations forward into a world brimming with storytelling potential.

To learn more about The Power of Story and how to contribute, visit Creative Educators Network’s website at creativeeducatorsnetwork.org.