Reading Education Foundation
Our Why
Why REF is Needed in Our Community
Nearly 25% of all students in grades 9 through 12 in Berks County attend the Reading School District. If we wish to have a strong, sustainable economy in the future we must inspire a more prepared workforce by creating greater educational attainment levels for all Reading School District students today. A smart, educated workforce is the cornerstone of successful businesses and communities.
As the 4th largest, and one of the most economically disadvantaged, school districts in Pennsylvania, Reading does a commendable job of educating its students. In fact, it does very well when compared to other urban school districts in the state. While that’s good news, faring well when compared only to other urban school districts is not good enough. The over-all achievement of Reading’s student body should be competitive with all school districts in Pennsylvania.
So many students enter Reading’s classrooms with significant challenges: they are children of poverty whose life experiences cannot compare with their wealthier counterparts; they are children who have English as their second language and must become bilingual while still learning their math, science and social studies; some are children with cognitive, physical or psychological needs who require specialized interventions to excel.
The Reading School District has done a commendable job of meeting the extraordinary needs of many students. But because of the challenges they face, very little money is left for innovation, for ensuring excellence—for the programs, the technology, the “extras” that wealthier school districts are able to provide their students to stimulate them to think creatively and deeply.
This is where the Reading Education Foundation can play a critical role. Unencumbered with competing needs, the Foundation can keep a razor-sharp focus on ways in which to enhance academic innovation and excellence for students in the Reading School District.
Why Enhanced Educational Experiences are So Important to Our Community...
The Reading School District instructs the largest pool of Grades 9 through 12 students every year. That student population is nearly 25% of all combined school districts in Berks County. If we wish to have a strong, sustainable economy in the future we must inspire a more prepared workforce by creating greater educational opportunities for all Reading School District students today. A smart, educated workforce is the cornerstone of successful businesses and communities.
Thank You for Giving Us a Few Minutes to Share Our Mutual Interests!
We’re the Reading Education Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to improving the innovative educational experiences for all Reading School District students, from Pre-K through grade 12, with proceeds secured through individual donations, planned giving opportunities, and corporate, business and community sponsorship and participation.
We all can agree that education, innovation, and inspiration are cornerstones to productive lives and prosperous communities. By investing in our kids today, creating greater educational attainment levels for all, we are building the foundation for a stronger, more inspired workforce. Our economy and future business climate depends on the success of our collective efforts!
We invite you to read the enclosed materials which provide greater detail of the mission, purpose and pursuit underway, including unique marquee networking opportunities, in hopes our efforts may inspire you to contribute toward this worthy effort to secure a brighter future for our children and our community.
Together, let’s Dream, Believe and Achieve!