Columbian Elementary School will kick off its first large-scale fundraising effort this week to raise money for a new before and after school program.

On Friday, Feb. 21 students and parents will participate in a Cultural Arts Day and create various arts and crafts projects that will be sold at the school's Cinco De Mayo Festival on Monday, May 5.

On Friday, May 9 the school will host a second fundraiser at the Elks Club. This event will include a buffet dinner, silent auction, live auction, entertainment and a cash bar. The theme is Salsa Fiesta. This is Columbian's first attempt at such an event to benefit the school.

Columbian Elementary School is located at 2925 W. 40th Ave. Contact Beverly Winders, principal, for more information, 303-433-2539.