WHO WE ARE
​Santa Fe Trail BOCES was formed in July, 1999 by five districts.  The districts were Cheraw, East Otero, Las Animas, Rocky Ford and Swink.  In 2008 Wiley was accepted as a member, bringing the total to six.
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​SFTBOCES is an acronym for Santa Fe Trail Board of Cooperative Educational Services.  BOCES exist to provide educational services to two or more school districts that alone cannot afford the service, or find it advantageous and cost-effective to cooperate with other districts.  By pooling resources, districts reduce costs, avoid duplication, and provide for a more comprehensive range of services and programs.  Participating as a member of the BOCES members are able to provide more efficient and effective programs and services to support the advancement of student achievement and maximizing resources.
WHAT WE DO
BOCES are unique in that they are an extension of the local member school districts.  Being service-driven, the SFTBOCES has the flexibility to respond quickly to the evolving needs of today's changing student population.  Programs can be developed, training provided, or outside expertise engaged as situations arise.  
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​The SFTBOCES also operates as a Special Education Administrative Unit for the member districts. We employ over 40 professionals in such fields as child find, hearing, school psychology, speech therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, preschool special needs, day treatment services, and other disciplines.  Our mission is to provide a cost-effective and collaborative services structure for member school districts where student achievement is maximized.
Santa Fe Trail BOCES
*  Maximizes the impact of available dollars through collaborative funding    
*  Reduces duplication of programs, personnel and services
*  Assists members in meeting responsibilities for mandated programs
*  Contributes to equalizing educational opportunities for students
*  Provides for the services of highly skilled resource personnel on a cost efficient basis
*  Promotes inter-district communication and idea sharing
*  Promotes and strengthens a collaborative culture that supports the needs and priorities
​of our organization and member districts