Mission

Leaders Today...Leading Tomorrow

Overview

Lopez Elementary is a diverse and inclusive neighborhood school serving approximately 300 students from preschool through 5th grade.  Our school utilizes the Leader in Me model to develop the whole child through strong academic instruction, a supportive environment, and leadership opportunities. Please visit our Leader in Me page to learn more about how this is an important part of our school.

We believe an effective partnership between home and school is vital. There are many ways for families to be involved; such as our joining our PTA, attending community events, and volunteering. The success of our school is due to the synergy between our students, staff, parents, and community.  

Our Namesake

We are honored to have such a distinguished leader, and local Fort Collins public servant as our namesake. William Lopez was a community activist who advocated for equal treatment for Mexican Americans. Bill, as he was known, graduated with distinction from Colorado A&M (now known as Colorado State University) in 1950. He began his professional career the following year when he was hired as the first Mexican American educator in Poudre School District.  Citing his connection with students, the General Federation of Women's Clubs awarded Bill an "Oscar" and recognized him as the nation's outstanding teacher with less than 10 years of experience. In 1963, he was awarded the coveted Fort Collins Community Builder Award. Bill culminated his teaching years by developing a model foreign language program for the school district. 

To challenge himself further, Bill sought and was elected to the Fort Collins City Council, serving between 1968 and 1972.  This began a period of active involvement with local Hispanic groups in civic affairs.  In 1974, he was selected by the governor to serve as a Larimer County Commissioner.  While serving as chairman, he was intensively involved with Larimer County Social Services and local recovery from the Big Thompson Flood. In 2024, CSU recognized William Lopez's lasting legacy as a Hispanic civil rights leader with an El Centro achievement award.

Lopez Feeder Schools
Webber Middle School
Rocky Mountain High School