Glen Ridge Educational Foundation
Enhancing educational opportunities and promoting community involvement in the Glen Ridge Public Schools since 1993.
Our Mission
GREF is dedicated to fostering and supporting the long-term educational excellence that is the hallmark of the Glen Ridge School District. The Foundation works with the Superintendent, administrators, faculty, and the Board of Education to secure funding for pilot programs that benefit students and teachers and enrich the quality of education throughout the District.
We are committed to giving students engaging, enjoyable, and effective learning experiences that boost their success.
How GREF Makes a Difference
Innovative Mini-Grants
Biannually, we award funding to Glen Ridge Public Schools staff members or groups who propose projects that enhance learning. Past grants include diverse disciplines like physical education, the arts, teacher professional development, and STEM education. A Peer Review Panel of educators evaluates proposals, and makes recommendation for approvals.
Orton-Gillingham Training & Certification
We offer training opportunities for teachers to utilize a broad, multisensory approach to instruct students who require extra reading and writing assistance. This teaching approach can be modified for individual or group instruction with auditory, visual, and kinesthetic elements reinforcing one another. This program is widely recognized as the gold standard of literacy teaching.
Virtual High School
We fund Virtual High School (VHS) online courses, including Advanced Placement (AP) offerings, to provide students with opportunities for a wider array of subjects than the school can offer directly. This initiative enhances academic standing and fosters crucial skills, such as self-discipline, preparing students for future success.
400+
TEACHERS WITH FUNDED PROJECTS
550
MINI-GRANTS FUNDED
$150 - 638K
RANGE OF PROJECT COSTS
$2.5M+
TOTAL FUNDS GRANTED
4,500+
STUDENTS IMPACTED BY GRANTS
Ways you can get involved
When you support the Foundation, you contribute to innovative programs at all educational levels, providing students with a more stimulating and robust learning experience. Your support directly impacts the next generation's education, fostering responsible and successful citizens.
Donate
Your generous contribution ensures the Foundation’s continuing efforts to enhance classroom experiences for students, the professional development of teachers, and the expansion of academic offerings. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent of the law. Receipts can be provided.
Participate in Teacher Recognition
Show your appreciation for the hardworking Glen Ridge school staff. Contributions are dedicated to ensuring our educators receive the necessary resources to excel, such as professional development and requested equipment, enhancing teaching strategies, and fostering improved student learning experiences.
Attend Our Events
Support our annual fundraiser, the Ashenfelter 8K and Tom Fleming 2K, by participating or becoming a Family Sponsor or Corporate Sponsor. Additionally, don't miss out on our exciting fundraising galas, where you can build connections with like-minded community leaders and individuals committed to education.
Recently funded Programs
Thanks to your generosity, we've recently funded a range of impactful programs that are making a difference in our community.
Our Featured INITIATIVE - Capturing Kids’ Hearts
"Capturing Kids’ Hearts" is a holistic program that supports the emotional and social development of Pre-K to 2nd grade students. All staff in the lower elementary schools — from administrators and teachers to para-professionals and custodians — are being trained in CKH principles. The initiative is designed to cultivate productive behaviors, build and maintain positive relationships, and teach students how to set and achieve goals. CKH seeks to reduce social anxiety and empower young voices, creating a supportive environment for personal growth.
