A 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization, The Ridgefield Education Foundation is a collection of citizens who believe that education is at the heart of our community. The REF is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors comprised of parents, local community leaders, Board of Education members, the Ridgefield Public Schools Superintendent, and teachers.
Student Advancement
Professional Development
Community Involvement
2017 Grants
Business & Finance Symposium
A real authentic experience for students. Access to industry analysis reports and recommendations were made to businesses in the community. Assisting local businesses with their
Dash and Dots
The Sunburst Digital company offers Wonder Workshop. This STEM based program, enhances K – 5 learners. Dash and Dot robots Dash and Dot robots provided
Library Learning Commons
Library Learning Commons (LLC) is a resource center and hub of creativity and collaboration. The SRMS Makerspace is increasingly used for immersive, inquiry-based creation and
Nature Lab
Nature lab’s goal provided access to natural history specimens that encourages curiosity and creative thinking. Hands-on access to the collection enabled students to make connections
Unified Sports – RHS
Unified Sports Program was created at RHS. Unified Sports® is a registered program of Special Olympics that combines approximately equal numbers of athletes with and
2016 Grants
Aquaponics
In partnership with a local environmental education organization, the grant created an aquaponics demonstration site and curriculum in the High School biology classes. Aquaponics –
2015 Grants
3D Printing
A 3D printer, scanner and product material enhanced and supported STEM initiatives as the district prepares for the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). STEM initiatives
Architecture
Utilizing a STEAM-based program, ArchForKids offers projects to deepen students’ understanding of the world built around them via architecture, design, engineering and urban planning. A
Makerspace
Makerspace – a “do it yourself”, high energy community space for students and staff to collaborate and creative. Providing technology, equipment and materials it enhances
Mark Twain
A collaboration with the Mark Twain House and Museum, Hartford, CT, introduces a new writing program and assembly that builds student learning and critical thinking
Mindfulness
Through movement, breath and mindfulness, students and teachers can cultivate a safe space in which to build a practice that supports the goals of 21st
Professional Development
By collaborating with The Prospector, a local non-profit dedicated to providing unique vocational training opportunities for adults with disabilities, Ridgefield Public Schools educateed the RPS
SCiO
Utilizing a handheld sensor, SCiO, that works with a smart phone to analyze matter on the molecular lever will bring scientific practices into the classroom,
2014 Grants
Common Ground
This unique partnership with Norwalk, Bridgeport and Ridgefield schools along with The Aldrich Museum resulted in school-museum-artist collaboration. Students working with with artists exploring ideas,
Flip Camera
Enhancing social and verbal skills through technology, flip cameras recorded both structured and unstructured conversations of students.
Gamestar
Coding with a modern, fun twist. Gamestar, the popular student gamification website, promoted problem and critical thinking skills to build games.
MoGo
The Vernier motion detector uses ultrasound to measure position, velocity and acceleration of moving objects. It can be connected to any computer to provide tables
Skype
Increasing student-student, student-teacher interaction using Skype. Skype is a digital video connection device for use on computers and smart phones.
Smart Music
Utilizing the SmartMusic app, students recorded, evaluated and submitted a recording to the teacher allowing online review, feedback and revised assignments. Students created a personalized
2013 Grants
eBooks
A curriculum targeted eBook collection that will allow teachers and students access to current e-titles when working in the library, classroom, computer lab or home.
iPad
Integrating lab stations with iPads that are connected to the Smart Board allowed for increasing classroom collaboration. Equipped with simulation and scientific software, the iPads,
Physics
The creation of six different lab stations that contained hands-on physics projects and demonstrations provided students’ the application of the inquiry based model. A rotating
2012 Grants
Share of Story
Enhancing second grade fluency in reading and writing through iTouch. Utilizing all aspects of literacy; reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing and enacting, students work through
Skype with Authors
The Veteran’s Park Elementary School Librarian created authors. After numerous author visits to VP, students were left wanting. Not enough exposure to the author, his
Tablet/Computer Integration
RHS English Department goes wireless. The integration of iPads in two RHS classrooms connects with the existing Apple TV devices and existing projectors using bluetooth