Testimonials
"Working with the REF has been an absolute joy. To be able to partner up with an organization that is so committed to the student experience has been inspiring to me and my practice. The REF was open and willing to answer questions about the process, communicative about the procedure, and most of all invested in my teaching and my student outcomes. Having an organization such as the REF in our district really allows for teachers to be creative, innovative, and most of all, supported."
Matthew Miranda, Forrestdale Art Educator
"Outside the walls of our classroom is a dynamic, fast-paced, and ever-changing world full of choices. Our flexible furniture initiative helps students to feel part of that world of choice and enables students to feel empowered by having some degree of choice and control over their environment."
Dr. Bormann, Superintendent of Schools
"We love our ASUS tablets. We have incorporated them into our math and reading curriculum. We use RAZ-Kids on our tablets for differentiated reading. Students use them during Centers to continue their learning and to play games."
Deane-Porter Kindergarten Teachers
"The laptop, television, and HDMI cable have made an enormous difference in the art room. I can do everything from show videos of certain techniques with materials we are using, play slide shows of our students' work on Artsonia, watch artists working, or even take virtual tours through museums to see particular works of art that we are studying. The fourth graders recently watched Alexander Calder playing with his circus for our Calder inspired circus sculptures. They were able to see how much fun he was having with his work, and it made our project more fun as well! One of my favorite uses, however, is showing slideshows that include information and steps that I want them to learn during a project. Not only does this save me time because I don't have to draw or write things out on the board for every class, but it ensures that I don't leave anything out. The kids can refer back to various steps throughout class as well. Thank you so much for your generosity!"
Amy Lepping, Forrestdale Art Teacher
"I am truly grateful to the REF for giving the art program the kiln! I don't know what I'd do without it. I applied for the kiln I think my second year at Rumson. I've been here 15 years...time flies! The kiln has been an integral part of the art program at Deane-Porter school. It has provided our students with the opportunity to understand the creative process of ceramics, understand the difference between functional and non-functional art and of course create beautiful and treasured artwork. The students absolutely love creating with clay, it is a highlight to their year in the art room. I also have facilitated a ceramics club for the third grade students for the past 10 plus years. This gives students the opportunity to experiment with clay and create even more pieces of cherished artwork."
Robin Yaeger, Deane-Porter Art Teacher
"Thank you so much for supporting our students. The Chromebooks are excellent assistive technology (AT) that help students with special needs access curriculum and information. The Google Apps and Extensions provide many supports to students with learning challenges. There are specialized web apps, screen readers, text-to-speech and speech-to-text, screen magnifies, curriculum resources, lesson ideas, collaboration tools and so much more. Chromebooks also allow students to access additional resources to support their learning and address their individual needs."
Michael Snyder, Supervisor of Special Services
"Thank you again! The kids had a great time and I know they will continue to enjoy the tricycles for years to come!"
Shellie Miller, Deane-Porter Preschool Teacher