The Ripon Education Foundation is celebrating its 25th anniversary.news
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2022-23 Ripon Education Foundation board members prepare for the organization’s 25th year supporting innovation in teaching and learning in the Ripon Area School District. Pictured from left to right in the front row are Susan Mochler, Gene Williams, Lynn McCarthy, Leslie Ernst, Mary Whitlock, Tom Monnis and Judy Neal. Back row, Cindy Cody, Diane Shady, Gene Rigden, Lauren McConnell, Bill Neal, Barb Splitgaber, and Ripon College interns Grace Tobin and Mikayla Freite. Betsy Heffernan, Sean Kirsten and Randall Roper not shown.
The Ripon Education Foundation (REF) is celebrating 25 years of support to the Ripon Area School District and its students.
Founded in 1997 by a small group of community leaders, REF “enriches learning for Ripon students, encourages learning excellence and innovation, supports post-secondary opportunities for graduates, and contributes to the Ripon community.” and the Ripon Area School District.”
Its mission is carried out by a board of volunteers who meet monthly to plan fundraising and set the direction of the Foundation’s philanthropic efforts.
Over the past 25 years, the REF has provided $862,172 in teaching and learning and special grants to district teachers and programs and awarded $458,945 in scholarships to alumni. In her May of this year, the REF awarded the graduate her $39,000 scholarship.
The foundation supports innovation in teaching and learning through grant programs.
Last year, we awarded $58,114 in grants for classroom projects such as gardens, classroom libraries, and high school science equipment. Foundation funds supported student participation in the National Conference of Future Business Leaders of America and the National Forensics Tournament.
Two tutoring programs, one for high school and one for K-2 grades, were supported by the foundation. In addition, Foundation funds have improved the outdoor spaces of all schools in the district.
Initially, REF used a quiet fundraising strategy.
As an early memo suggested, “Citizens will be informed and reminded that the Foundation may provide a means of donation that benefits the educational welfare of young people living within the RASD.”
These days, the foundation participates in two major fundraising events each year. The Ripon Roar campaign, November 14-18, will raise funds for the REF grant program. The Scholarship Drive (April 17-21) raises funds to provide scholarships to graduating seniors.
The REF Board also works with donors to establish scholarships and other funds that benefit the district and its students.
In honor of its 25th anniversary, the REF Board encourages RASD residents to think in increments of 25 when making contributions to the Foundation.
“Whether you contribute $25, $50, $100 or $2,500, your donation will make public education and educational opportunities stronger and more vibrant for Ripon students. It helps us to do that,” said the foundation.
The stationery used in the 1997 memo about the Foundation reminded readers that “in Ripon, good school is everyone’s business.”
“As you prepare for the November 14-18 Ripon Roar campaign, remember that slogan, celebrate REF’s 25th anniversary with a donation, and get ready to roar,” REF said.
Donations can be made by linking to the REF website www.RiponEducationFoundation.org/riponroar, Facebook and Instagram posts during Ripon Roar week, or by mailing a check to PO Box 395, Ripon, WI 54971.
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