The Foundation has granted almost 1.4 million dollars since 1993 to implement innovative and creative programs in the Glen Ridge Public Schools.
The Glen Ridge Educational Foundation semiannually reviews and approves Innovation mini-grants that bring new dimensions to the curriculum. Since 1993, 400 grants have been awarded to teachers for projects that complement the curriculum and enrich the learning experience of every student in the Glen Ridge Public Schools. Two grant recipients have received statewide recognition—the New Jersey Best Practices Award and a New Jersey State School Boards Award.
A portable Language Lab, located in the High School, was the Foundation’s first major project. It benefits all students studying a foreign language.
The Synergistics Lab at Ridgewood Avenue School was funded by the Foundation in 1996 and benefits students by providing an avenue for them to utilize and reinforce subject material explored in the rest of the curriculum.
In 1998 the Foundation funded Computer Aided Design (CAD) Lab in the High School. There, students build upon project based skills and technology skills. This program gives students a foundation and theory of technical drawing and graphic design using the computer instead of paper based methods. Freed from the constraints of getting their concepts on paper, students gain a greater understanding of the project or product and can view models and assemble in three dimensions.
In 2001, the Foundation completed the Glen Ridge Communications Project. Each building was supplied with age appropriate equipment to enhance the development of effective communication through a multimedia approach. At the high school TV studio the morning announcement readers left the PA microphone and became newscasters while other students learned to operate sound mixers, TV cameras, and video feed equipment. Classes are offered to help students develop effective communications skills while they create, write, and deliver news and sports programs. In 2011, the analog TV studio, which was worn out and out-dated, was completely updated and fitted with digital equipment.
In the spring of 2003, major grants were made to both Linden and Forest Avenue schools to be used for Leveled Reading Literacy Libraries. Teacher selected books in these facilities will expand upon the materials available to stimulate the reading abilities and interests of students.
September 2004 saw the opening of the High School’s Synergistics II: Pathways to the Future Lab, funded by the Educational Foundation. Here students engage in a new information technology-based learning program designed to help them learn to work in teams on real world projects utilizing technology as it is commonly utilized in the workplace. They develop research, planning and evaluative skills as well as experiences they will need in the future.
Having served students and the community for 53 years the Ridgewood Avenue School Auditorium was in dire need of repair and updating. Used for many school and community activities, the foundation raised almost $700,000 to return the auditorium to a safe, functional condition that will serve the interests of the entire district and town.
The Foundation funded a professional development project, CAPS, which helps teachers better utilize assessments to advance student learning more effectively. And at the High School, a MIDI Lab that helps 7th and 8th grade students develop music skills and provide composition opportunities to students in grades 9 through 12.
The great success of the Synergistics Lab as well as advancements in technology generated the decision to bring the lab into the 21st century with a complete upgrade of equipment and curriculum. Additionally, a new “Cycle” class in robotics for 7th and 8th graders was funded.
Turning to the humanities, the Foundation funded the curriculum and on-going teacher training to bring the Lucy Calkins Writing Workshop to Ridgewood Avenue School. On the other side, the Jr. Great Books curriculum was also funded. This program utilizes the Socratic approach to develop better understanding of material read.
Recognizing the limitations on curriculum options in a district the size of Glen Ridge, a two-year trial of the Glen Ridge Virtual High School was funded in 2011. Students approved for the program can select from a wide variety of subjects ranging from AP Economics to “The Glory of Ancient Rome” to “Advanced Web Design.” Based on the success of the trial, the Foundation has now committed to funding this program for another five years, through June 2018.
In September 2014, sixth grade students will embark on the new science curriculum in a new science lab designed to enable the implementation of the new N.J. Core Curriculum Content Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards developed by the National Research Council. The new curriculum places a greater emphasis on hands-on learning, including personal observation, analysis, experimentation and communication.