Our Foundation grants continue to bring innovation, engaging speakers, unique student services and brand-new equipment to Radnor’s 3,600 public school students. It is so rewarding to see how students react to engaging programs and services that the school district budget may not be able to cover. Read on for highlights from our past year of funding.
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Ryan’s Story Presentation by John Halligan
$3,500 | Radnor Middle School | 830 students benefited
John Halligan, a nationally known speaker and anti-bullying activist, came to speak to Radnor Middle School students about the consequences and dangers of cyberbullying through the example of his son. Ryan Halligan was just 13 years old when he took his own life in 2003 and his father travels the nation to educate students in hopes of preventing cyber bullying, alerting them to potential suicide and mental health struggles, and provides resources for students and parents if bullying occurs. This program supports Radnor Middle School’s commitment to fostering a positive atmosphere for students of all ages and abilities.
Ryan’s Story Presentation by John Halligan
$3,500 | Radnor Middle School | 830 students benefited
John Halligan, a nationally known speaker and anti-bullying activist, came to speak to Radnor Middle School students about the consequences and dangers of cyberbullying through the example of his son. Ryan Halligan was just 13 years old when he took his own life in 2003 and his father travels the nation to educate students in hopes of preventing cyber bullying, alerting them to potential suicide and mental health struggles, and provides resources for students and parents if bullying occurs. This program supports Radnor Middle School's commitment to fostering a positive atmosphere for students of all ages and abilities.
Hat Heat Press
$1,596.50 | Radnor Middle School | 75 students benefited
Radnor Middle School students have a requirement to take a technology education course during their time at the school. The Hat Heat Press grant allowed students to create a unique design for a custom wearable baseball hat. Students created their chosen artwork in Adobe Illustrator, which was then laser-engraved onto a leather patch with adhesive on the back, using an existing 3D printer. From there, students used a special heat press to adhere the patch to the hat for permanent wearing. This type of education motivates students to want to learn more about this interesting process, as they see immediate results from their work and have a custom product to showcase to their peers.
Hat Heat Press
$1,596.50 | Radnor Middle School | 75 students benefited
Radnor Middle School students have a requirement to take a technology education course during their time at the school. The Hat Heat Press grant allowed students to create a unique design for a custom wearable baseball hat. Students created their chosen artwork in Adobe Illustrator, which was then laser-engraved onto a leather patch with adhesive on the back, using an existing 3D printer. From there, students used a special heat press to adhere the patch to the hat for permanent wearing. This type of education motivates students to want to learn more about this interesting process, as they see immediate results from their work and have a custom product to showcase to their peers.
Pathfinder Program
$800 | Wayne Elementary School | 30 students benefited
The Pathfinder Program provides a safe after-school environment, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from dismissal until 5:30 throughout the school year. A certified teacher and assistants along with 4 paraprofessionals manage the program, with students receiving assistance in completing homework, physical education, cooperative play skills, art activities, science activities, and meals/healthy snack options. This funding allows students to complete their work with an understanding of what they are learning, as well as the opportunity to improve their understanding. Working one-on-one with teachers with personalized instruction and targeted support accelerates their learning. This option is helpful for working families, as it allows students to stay learning with paraprofessionals managing them, and parents can finish their work day. Through this program, students are able to continue learning and working in a fun and enriching way.
Pathfinder Program
$800 | Wayne Elementary School | 30 students benefited
The Pathfinder Program provides a safe after-school environment, held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from dismissal until 5:30 throughout the school year. A certified teacher and assistants along with 4 paraprofessionals manage the program, with students receiving assistance in completing homework, physical education, cooperative play skills, art activities, science activities, and meals/healthy snack options. This funding allows students to complete their work with an understanding of what they are learning, as well as the opportunity to improve their understanding. Working one-on-one with teachers with personalized instruction and targeted support accelerates their learning. This option is helpful for working families, as it allows students to stay learning with paraprofessionals managing them, and parents can finish their work day. Through this program, students are able to continue learning and working in a fun and enriching way.
The Encyclopedia of Sixth Grade
$8,000 | Radnor Middle School | 283 students benefited
Radnor Middle School students were given the opportunity to create, write, and perform in a play, both on a community theater stage and within their home school. The collaboration between People's Light and Theater Company in Malvern, PA and the contingent of 6th graders allowed for a series of workshops on the creative writing process, acting, improvisation, and performance that highlighted a 6th grader's journey through the school year. This grant challenged and enhanced the creativity in the students and allowed them to engage as both director and actor, going beyond the regular English Language Arts curriculum. Students became more compassionate communicators, as this type of program impacts how this class unites through graduation and beyond.
The Encyclopedia of Sixth Grade
$8,000 | Radnor Middle School | 283 students benefited
Radnor Middle School students were given the opportunity to create, write, and perform in a play, both on a community theater stage and within their home school. The collaboration between People's Light and Theater Company in Malvern, PA and the contingent of 6th graders allowed for a series of workshops on the creative writing process, acting, improvisation, and performance that highlighted a 6th grader's journey through the school year. This grant challenged and enhanced the creativity in the students and allowed them to engage as both director and actor, going beyond the regular English Language Arts curriculum. Students became more compassionate communicators, as this type of program impacts how this class unites through graduation and beyond.
Best Buddies: Walk, Tie-dye, and Shirt Heat Press
$1,403.98 | Radnor High School | 50 Students
The Radnor High School Best Buddies Club is a dynamic group of students with special needs who interact with regular ability students, engaging in social events, dance parties and kickball, lunch and learn days, the Best Buddies Talent Show, and more. Funding this year allowed the club to create custom t-shirts on a silkscreen machine, followed by a tie-dying event, with the shirts being worn as part of the Best Buddies Friendship Walk at the King of Prussia Mall.  These activities promoted creativity, art skills, and collaboration with peers, all enhancing the high school experience. The Best Buddies Friendship Walk was a collegial fundraiser, raising additional money for the club and bringing awareness to the club's mission of fostering meaningful friendships, advancing inclusion, and supporting individuals in their school communities. Funding allowed students to learn physically and develop a new skill, enhancing their learning experience.
Best Buddies: Walk, Tie-dye, and Shirt Heat Press
$1,403.98 | Radnor High School | 50 Students
The Radnor High School Best Buddies Club is a dynamic group of students with special needs who interact with regular ability students, engaging in social events, dance parties and kickball, lunch and learn days, the Best Buddies Talent Show, and more. Funding this year allowed the club to create custom t-shirts on a silkscreen machine, followed by a tie-dying event, with the shirts being worn as part of the Best Buddies Friendship Walk at the King of Prussia Mall.  These activities promoted creativity, art skills, and collaboration with peers, all enhancing the high school experience. The Best Buddies Friendship Walk was a collegial fundraiser, raising additional money for the club and bringing awareness to the club's mission of fostering meaningful friendships, advancing inclusion, and supporting individuals in their school communities. Funding allowed students to learn physically and develop a new skill, enhancing their learning experience.
Elevating Education: Drones in the Classroom
$2,889.88 | Wayne Elementary School | 160 Students benefited
Flying drones in a classroom setting? Yes, at Wayne Elementary School students were given the opportunity to collaboratively program drones to go through an obstacle course, and land on a specific target. This grant helped to fund the program via the Innovation Design Studio (IDS). This is a collaborative workspace focused on developing new ideas and solutions through design thinking, often involving cross-functional teams and diverse perspectives. IDS helps students develop and refine innovative ideas in teams. It teaches teamwork, creativity, and problem solving. In this activity, students gained a higher level of skill in innovation, design, and technology, while experiencing competitiveness, attention to detail, teamwork, engagement, and a fun learning experience. The goal of using drones in the classroom is to enhance students' computer science and math skills, as well as provide students with real-world STEM connections.
Elevating Education: Drones in the Classroom
$2,889.88 | Wayne Elementary School | 160 Students benefited
Flying drones in a classroom setting? Yes, at Wayne Elementary School students were given the opportunity to collaboratively program drones to go through an obstacle course, and land on a specific target. This grant helped to fund the program via the Innovation Design Studio (IDS). This is a collaborative workspace focused on developing new ideas and solutions through design thinking, often involving cross-functional teams and diverse perspectives. IDS helps students develop and refine innovative ideas in teams. It teaches teamwork, creativity, and problem solving. In this activity, students gained a higher level of skill in innovation, design, and technology, while experiencing competitiveness, attention to detail, teamwork, engagement, and a fun learning experience. The goal of using drones in the classroom is to enhance students' computer science and math skills, as well as provide students with real-world STEM connections.
Positive Educators Certification
$13,720 | Radnor Middle School | 820 students benefited
The Positive Education Certification (PEC Program) is a training initiative designed to empower educators, parents, coaches, and other influential figures in children's lives, and provide the vital tools and knowledge necessary to cultivate a positive learning environment. The program aligns with the Radnor Township School District's commitment to implementing the principles outlined in Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity, which teaches "the keys to successful equity implementation." The goal is to foster an environment where individuals feel genuinely appreciated, validated, and accepted for who they are. To become certified, teachers participated in 18 weeks of after-school workshops, training sessions, and collaborative activities to cultivate essential student life skills such as emotional regulation, mindfulness, and a growth mindset.
Positive Educators Certification
$13,720 | Radnor Middle School | 820 students benefited
The Positive Education Certification (PEC Program) is a training initiative designed to empower educators, parents, coaches, and other influential figures in children's lives, and provide the vital tools and knowledge necessary to cultivate a positive learning environment. The program aligns with the Radnor Township School District's commitment to implementing the principles outlined in Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity, which teaches "the keys to successful equity implementation." The goal is to foster an environment where individuals feel genuinely appreciated, validated, and accepted for who they are. To become certified, teachers participated in 18 weeks of after-school workshops, training sessions, and collaborative activities to cultivate essential student life skills such as emotional regulation, mindfulness, and a growth mindset.
Internship & Volunteer Fair
$500 | Radnor High School | 1200 students benefited
After a five-year break, the Radnor High School Counseling Department hosted an in-person Internship and Volunteer Fair. The event served as a bridge between students and interesting local opportunities for volunteering and internships, volunteer roles, and enrichment experiences. Funding towards this event offered a student welcome package and a thank-you lunch for participating organizations, as well as incentives for students who actively engaged in the program. The fair also brought awareness of local nonprofits, businesses and other community groups to the student body. The fair created a dynamic and engaging opportunity for students to explore future pathways while strengthening community partnerships.
Internship & Volunteer Fair
$500 | Radnor High School | 1200 students benefited
After a five-year break, the Radnor High School Counseling Department hosted an in-person Internship and Volunteer Fair. The event served as a bridge between students and interesting local opportunities for volunteering and internships, volunteer roles, and enrichment experiences. Funding towards this event offered a student welcome package and a thank-you lunch for participating organizations, as well as incentives for students who actively engaged in the program. The fair also brought awareness of local nonprofits, businesses and other community groups to the student body. The fair created a dynamic and engaging opportunity for students to explore future pathways while strengthening community partnerships.
Wellness Wednesdays
$600 | Radnor High School | 1200 students benefited
The Radnor High School Student Assistance Program (SAP) holds Wellness Wednesday events each month to address important mental health topics impacting students, including healthy relationships, mindfulness, and gratitude. Events are held during school-wide lunch periods, known as Lunch & Learn slots, which allow students an hour to eat as well as spend their time to educationally benefit themselves. Here, grant funds are utilized to incentivize student participation with raffles & giveaways. Wellness Wednesdays range from a variety of activities aimed to enhance student well-being. Some of the Wellness Wednesdays this year included interacting with rescue puppies, learning about mental health care programs, yoga, and popsicles and bubbles outside on a sunny day.
Wellness Wednesdays
$600 | Radnor High School | 1200 students benefited
The Radnor High School Student Assistance Program (SAP) holds Wellness Wednesday events each month to address important mental health topics impacting students, including healthy relationships, mindfulness, and gratitude. Events are held during school-wide lunch periods, known as Lunch & Learn slots, which allow students an hour to eat as well as spend their time to educationally benefit themselves. Here, grant funds are utilized to incentivize student participation with raffles & giveaways. Wellness Wednesdays range from a variety of activities aimed to enhance student well-being. Some of the Wellness Wednesdays this year included interacting with rescue puppies, learning about mental health care programs, yoga, and popsicles and bubbles outside on a sunny day.
Multicultural Potluck
$2,000 | Radnor High School and Community | 300 community members benefited
Radnor High School holds an annual Multicultural Potluck, which is a dinner aimed at introducing students, families, and staff to different foods from different cultures, and providing a safe space for students to celebrate their culture. The potluck gives everyone the chance to bring in food from their specific culture ranging from European to Central and South American foods, African, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines. This potluck gives students the opportunity to showcase their background, and participants can diversify their palates and learn more about food from around the world. For the Multicultural Potluck, grant funds were utilized to supplement the costs of the event, including food stations, supplies, decorations, music, and a photo booth. Ultimately students were exposed to a number of cultures via food.
Multicultural Potluck
$2,000 | Radnor High School and Community | 300 community members benefited
Radnor High School holds an annual Multicultural Potluck, which is a dinner aimed at introducing students, families, and staff to different foods from different cultures, and providing a safe space for students to celebrate their culture. The potluck gives everyone the chance to bring in food from their specific culture ranging from European to Central and South American foods, African, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisines. This potluck gives students the opportunity to showcase their background, and participants can diversify their palates and learn more about food from around the world. For the Multicultural Potluck, grant funds were utilized to supplement the costs of the event, including food stations, supplies, decorations, music, and a photo booth. Ultimately students were exposed to a number of cultures via food.
Hayride for English Language Learner students
$300 | Radnor Middle School | 25 students benefited
Radnor Middle School English Language Learner (ELL) students will be introduced to the American traditions of a hayride, pumpkin picking, and apple cider at a local orchard. ELL students will learn autumn vocabulary words prior to the trip; they will also learn about the farm, how to pick fruits/vegetables, and produce apple cider. Spending time with other ELL students from grades 6-8 will strengthen their community bond and add variety into their school day, with an opportunity to learn outside of the classroom and with physical representations. This will help students get the full experience of the season and not only learn new things about the American culture of Fall but experience it. This trip provides an enhanced learning experience for students to practice their English, as they will be able to use their skills and witness what they are learning firsthand, through a fun and engaging trip.
Hayride for English Language Learner students
$300 | Radnor Middle School | 25 students benefited
Radnor Middle School English Language Learner (ELL) students will be introduced to the American traditions of a hayride, pumpkin picking, and apple cider at a local orchard. ELL students will learn autumn vocabulary words prior to the trip; they will also learn about the farm, how to pick fruits/vegetables, and produce apple cider. Spending time with other ELL students from grades 6-8 will strengthen their community bond and add variety into their school day, with an opportunity to learn outside of the classroom and with physical representations. This will help students get the full experience of the season and not only learn new things about the American culture of Fall but experience it. This trip provides an enhanced learning experience for students to practice their English, as they will be able to use their skills and witness what they are learning firsthand, through a fun and engaging trip.
WearWell
$300 | Radnor High School | 75 students benefited
The WearWell Club at Radnor High School is led by a team of Radnor High School students who are passionate about addressing the environmental impact of the textile industry, the trend of fast fashion, and the focus on promoting more sustainable practices. The program included quarterly clothing swaps, education materials including social media posts regarding the impact of fashion, and fostering community involvement. Grant funds cover reusable supplies including foldable clothing racks, hangars, bins, and promotional materials. These funds allow students to preach what they are passionate about, and the helpful and educational information produced by the club helps students learn more about how to help the world and better understand the fashion industry. This program motivates students to improve the environment while still being able to dress fashionably with a purpose.
WearWell
$300 | Radnor High School | 75 students benefited
The WearWell Club at Radnor High School is led by a team of Radnor High School students who are passionate about addressing the environmental impact of the textile industry, the trend of fast fashion, and the focus on promoting more sustainable practices. The program included quarterly clothing swaps, education materials including social media posts regarding the impact of fashion, and fostering community involvement. Grant funds cover reusable supplies including foldable clothing racks, hangars, bins, and promotional materials. These funds allow students to preach what they are passionate about, and the helpful and educational information produced by the club helps students learn more about how to help the world and better understand the fashion industry. This program motivates students to improve the environment while still being able to dress fashionably with a purpose.
Black Student Union College Exploration and Museum Trip
$2,000 | Radnor High School | 56 students benefited
The Radnor High School Black Student Union (BSU), in coordination with the high school's Career & Counseling team, traveled to Washington, DC for the day to visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture as well as Howard University, a renowned Historically Black College and University (HBCU). The trip offered the club members a unique opportunity to engage with African American history and culture in a meaningful way. This trip fostered cultural awareness, provided an educational experience, and promoted college exploration to the club's members in a collegial atmosphere.
Black Student Union College Exploration and Museum Trip
$2,000 | Radnor High School | 56 students benefited
The Radnor High School Black Student Union (BSU), in coordination with the high school's Career & Counseling team, traveled to Washington, DC for the day to visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture as well as Howard University, a renowned Historically Black College and University (HBCU). The trip offered the club members a unique opportunity to engage with African American history and culture in a meaningful way. This trip fostered cultural awareness, provided an educational experience, and promoted college exploration to the club's members in a collegial atmosphere.
STEM Kits 4 Kids
$3,000 | Radnor Elementary School | 500 students benefited
The American Chemical Society (ACS) Club at Radnor High School assembled and distributed interactive Science Kits to 500 students at Radnor Elementary School (K- 5th). These grade-specific kits contained all necessary supplies, instructions, and explanations to create things such as growing plants from seeds, creating lava lamps, and skittle art. High school students directly interacted with the elementary school students through in-person demonstrations within the classrooms, as well as discussions during the elementary school's Science Fair night. The joint collaboration fostered organization and leadership skills in Radnor High School students, as well as reinforced interactive mentor-based learning for elementary students. Grant funds covered the packaging, materials, and supplies for this project, allowing each student an equal opportunity to do this project during the summer months with specific learning outcomes. Working hands-on to perform the different experiments engages students in active learning, leading to a deeper understanding of the concepts being taught.
STEM Kits 4 Kids
$3,000 | Radnor Elementary School | 500 students benefited
The American Chemical Society (ACS) Club at Radnor High School assembled and distributed interactive Science Kits to 500 students at Radnor Elementary School (K- 5th). These grade-specific kits contained all necessary supplies, instructions, and explanations to create things such as growing plants from seeds, creating lava lamps, and skittle art. High school students directly interacted with the elementary school students through in-person demonstrations within the classrooms, as well as discussions during the elementary school's Science Fair night. The joint collaboration fostered organization and leadership skills in Radnor High School students, as well as reinforced interactive mentor-based learning for elementary students. Grant funds covered the packaging, materials, and supplies for this project, allowing each student an equal opportunity to do this project during the summer months with specific learning outcomes. Working hands-on to perform the different experiments engages students in active learning, leading to a deeper understanding of the concepts being taught.
RTSD Summer Reading Camp Program
$10,000 | RTSD | 240 students benefited
The Radnor Township School District (RTSD) Summer Reading Camp provides additional learning opportunities for students at risk for low achievement, including low reading scores, English Language Learners (ELL), and special education students. There are three camps: Extended School Year (ESY) for students with IEPs that need additional support through the summer months, English Language Development (ELD) for students from bilingual families who qualify for English support at school, and Literacy Camp (LIT) for additional literacy support. This grant program provides a fun reward at the end of their hard work. Attendance each day at camp is rewarded as students earn "Book Bucks." At the end of camp, students visit Children's Book World in Haverford, PA, where they can purchase a book with their rewards. Children actively read to be able to enjoy this fun tri
RTSD Summer Reading Camp Program
$10,000 | RTSD | 240 students benefited
The Radnor Township School District (RTSD) Summer Reading Camp provides additional learning opportunities for students at risk for low achievement, including low reading scores, English Language Learners (ELL), and special education students. There are three camps: Extended School Year (ESY) for students with IEPs that need additional support through the summer months, English Language Development (ELD) for students from bilingual families who qualify for English support at school, and Literacy Camp (LIT) for additional literacy support. This grant program provides a fun reward at the end of their hard work. Attendance each day at camp is rewarded as students earn "Book Bucks." At the end of camp, students visit Children's Book World in Haverford, PA, where they can purchase a book with their rewards. Children actively read to be able to enjoy this fun tri
RTSD Sky Dome Planetarium
$2,000 | RTSD | 240 students benefited
This summer, the theme for the school district's summer reading programs is "space." To amplify the experience for students enrolled in the district extended school year, language development or literacy support camps, an assembly held within an indoor planetarium will be featured. Students will enter the dome and be introduced to a star-filled "sky," with a navigator helping students view the stars of the Northern Hemisphere exactly as they appear in nature on the day of the presentation. Students will learn how to identify every planet in our solar system in dramatic "flights" towards each world. They will be introduced to Greek mythological characters and see how they can be found in the stars. Then, a night "sky" will appear in different seasons and from different global perspectives. This program will increase engagement, as students learn to use their skills in something they can physically see, while allowing for fun and important life skills not necessarily taught inside the classroom.
RTSD Sky Dome Planetarium
$2,000 | RTSD | 240 students benefited
This summer, the theme for the school district's summer reading programs is "space." To amplify the experience for students enrolled in the district extended school year, language development or literacy support camps, an assembly held within an indoor planetarium will be featured. Students will enter the dome and be introduced to a star-filled "sky," with a navigator helping students view the stars of the Northern Hemisphere exactly as they appear in nature on the day of the presentation. Students will learn how to identify every planet in our solar system in dramatic "flights" towards each world. They will be introduced to Greek mythological characters and see how they can be found in the stars. Then, a night "sky" will appear in different seasons and from different global perspectives. This program will increase engagement, as students learn to use their skills in something they can physically see, while allowing for fun and important life skills not necessarily taught inside the classroom.
School Supplies
$3,000 | Wayne Elementary School | 50 students benefited
This program provides the funding needed for school social workers to offer a comprehensive school supply kit to students in need or students experiencing socio-economic challenges. The kits are premade and can be shipped directly to the student's home. This program also gives parents the opportunity to donate supplies, allowing a place for people wanting to help. This program allows students who might struggle to obtain the necessary school supplies with the same footing as other children in the school community. This program helps ensure that students have equal access to supplies that allow them to experience a complete learning journey.
School Supplies
$3,000 | Wayne Elementary School | 50 students benefited
This program provides the funding needed for school social workers to offer a comprehensive school supply kit to students in need or students experiencing socio-economic challenges. The kits are premade and can be shipped directly to the student's home. This program also gives parents the opportunity to donate supplies, allowing a place for people wanting to help. This program allows students who might struggle to obtain the necessary school supplies with the same footing as other children in the school community. This program helps ensure that students have equal access to supplies that allow them to experience a complete learning journey.
High School Voter Registration Initiative
$1,000 | Radnor High School | 320 students benefited
During practice for high school graduation, high school seniors will be encouraged to register to vote as part of this program, organized by the local chapter of the League of Women Voters. An envelope of information is provided to each student, including a voter registration form, a card with a QR code to register online, information on what will be on the next election ballot, and a link to Vote 411 (a one-stop spot for voter and election information). Directions on how to register to vote, and how to obtain and use a mail-in ballot will also be provided. This program offers a lesson on democracy to high school students and promotes civic responsibility.Graduation comes with many responsibilities and new opportunities; new work and/or school are often prioritized, but this program works to remind students of another responsibility and opportunity they have, which is to vote.
High School Voter Registration Initiative
$1,000 | Radnor High School | 320 students benefited
During practice for high school graduation, high school seniors will be encouraged to register to vote as part of this program, organized by the local chapter of the League of Women Voters. An envelope of information is provided to each student, including a voter registration form, a card with a QR code to register online, information on what will be on the next election ballot, and a link to Vote 411 (a one-stop spot for voter and election information). Directions on how to register to vote, and how to obtain and use a mail-in ballot will also be provided. This program offers a lesson on democracy to high school students and promotes civic responsibility.Graduation comes with many responsibilities and new opportunities; new work and/or school are often prioritized, but this program works to remind students of another responsibility and opportunity they have, which is to vote.
Girls Lead
$10,000 | Radnor Middle School | 30 students benefited
The Girls Lead program teaches skills to young girls with untapped leadership potential to help avoid pitfalls common to adolescent girls, and teaching skills such as decision making, conflict resolution, problem solving, and communications – all leading to more confident young women. Both 7th and 8th grade girls participate in a 15-session, guidance counselor-facilitated program, allowing the students to engage with their community. A collaborative project is produced by the 2 student cohorts and presented to their peers at a regional conference consisting of several hundred young women. Examples of these projects have included hunger issues, bullying, under-resourced youth, and more. The program is both evidence-based and experiential, enabling participants to experience and incorporate the four life skills listed into their daily choices.
Girls Lead
$10,000 | Radnor Middle School | 30 students benefited
The Girls Lead program teaches skills to young girls with untapped leadership potential to help avoid pitfalls common to adolescent girls, and teaching skills such as decision making, conflict resolution, problem solving, and communications – all leading to more confident young women. Both 7th and 8th grade girls participate in a 15-session, guidance counselor-facilitated program, allowing the students to engage with their community. A collaborative project is produced by the 2 student cohorts and presented to their peers at a regional conference consisting of several hundred young women. Examples of these projects have included hunger issues, bullying, under-resourced youth, and more. The program is both evidence-based and experiential, enabling participants to experience and incorporate the four life skills listed into their daily choices.
Blue Band Experience
$5,000 | Radnor High School | 100 students benefited
The Radnor High School marching band and color guard students will take a memorable day trip to Penn State University to rehearse with the school's Blue Band in their historic Beaver Stadium. Radnor students will learn the Lions' marching and music traditions, while rehearsing side-by-side with Penn State students. Afterwards, students will enjoy the legendary Blue Band's pre-show and halftime show. Participating in this program provides students with a foundation for the results of hard work and dedication as they perform, and helps set goals for the musicians and motivates them to keep working. From increased confidence, organization and time management skills to the joy of making music with a diverse group of other students, this program provides a unique intersection of personal and social development while boosting school spirit and getting exercise.
Blue Band Experience
$5,000 | Radnor High School | 100 students benefited
The Radnor High School marching band and color guard students will take a memorable day trip to Penn State University to rehearse with the school's Blue Band in their historic Beaver Stadium. Radnor students will learn the Lions' marching and music traditions, while rehearsing side-by-side with Penn State students. Afterwards, students will enjoy the legendary Blue Band's pre-show and halftime show. Participating in this program provides students with a foundation for the results of hard work and dedication as they perform, and helps set goals for the musicians and motivates them to keep working. From increased confidence, organization and time management skills to the joy of making music with a diverse group of other students, this program provides a unique intersection of personal and social development while boosting school spirit and getting exercise.
Sensory Garden for Early and Neurodivergent Learners
$9,500 | Radnor Elementary School | 300 students benefited
A sensory-friendly, musical play equipment area will be constructed onsite at the elementary school near the existing butterfly garden and Kindergarten play area. The goal is to expand the physical learning space for early learners who may not engage with or have access to traditional climbing and running structures. Musical elements like a xylophone and conga drums will expand opportunities for sensory play, creative expression, and cooperative interaction. Students who are neurodivergent, those with limited mobility, social-emotional development needs, or other learning needs will benefit from this new venue on school grounds. The incorporation of sensory stimulation through new equipment gives equal opportunity to all students during outside play time.
Sensory Garden for Early and Neurodivergent Learners
$9,500 | Radnor Elementary School | 300 students benefited
A sensory-friendly, musical play equipment area will be constructed onsite at the elementary school near the existing butterfly garden and Kindergarten play area. The goal is to expand the physical learning space for early learners who may not engage with or have access to traditional climbing and running structures. Musical elements like a xylophone and conga drums will expand opportunities for sensory play, creative expression, and cooperative interaction. Students who are neurodivergent, those with limited mobility, social-emotional development needs, or other learning needs will benefit from this new venue on school grounds. The incorporation of sensory stimulation through new equipment gives equal opportunity to all students during outside play time.
Wireless Force/Acceleration Sensors
$1,300 | Radnor Middle School | 250 students benefited
This program provides durable wireless force and acceleration sensors for 8th grade Physical Science students to access advanced scientific technology and valuable educational tools. The sensors will help students learn about basic principles of mechanics and the meaning of force and acceleration – making invisible concepts more tangible. The sensors are connected to the students' Chromebooks through Bluetooth and allow students to conduct a variety of labs and demonstrations. Force, acceleration, and Newton's Laws of Motion are topics that are already taught in the 8th grade science curriculum, and the labs with the sensors show a physical representation that proves what they learn. Not only will a deeper understanding of these concepts help students in their current course, but it will also translate to their high school education, where they learn more about these ideas in physics. NOTE: REF's two student liaisons identified this grant funding opportunity.
Wireless Force/Acceleration Sensors
$1,300 | Radnor Middle School | 250 students benefited
This program provides durable wireless force and acceleration sensors for 8th grade Physical Science students to access advanced scientific technology and valuable educational tools. The sensors will help students learn about basic principles of mechanics and the meaning of force and acceleration – making invisible concepts more tangible. The sensors are connected to the students' Chromebooks through Bluetooth and allow students to conduct a variety of labs and demonstrations. Force, acceleration, and Newton's Laws of Motion are topics that are already taught in the 8th grade science curriculum, and the labs with the sensors show a physical representation that proves what they learn. Not only will a deeper understanding of these concepts help students in their current course, but it will also translate to their high school education, where they learn more about these ideas in physics. NOTE: REF's two student liaisons identified this grant funding opportunity.
STEELS Book Collection
$2,500 | RTSD | 3,600 students benefited
This program will support the district's school librarians' selection and purchase of both fiction and nonfiction books as well as eBooks related to the integrated standards of Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy and Sustainability (STEELS), which is being implemented in grades K-12 beginning in Fall 2025. The curriculum framework will engage students in sustained investigations to support deeper understanding of agricultural and environmental systems and resources; environmental literacy skills; and sustainability and stewardship. These books allow students to have a supplemental education outside of their curriculum for these four important subjects.
STEELS Book Collection
$2,500 | RTSD | 3,600 students benefited
This program will support the district's school librarians' selection and purchase of both fiction and nonfiction books as well as eBooks related to the integrated standards of Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy and Sustainability (STEELS), which is being implemented in grades K-12 beginning in Fall 2025. The curriculum framework will engage students in sustained investigations to support deeper understanding of agricultural and environmental systems and resources; environmental literacy skills; and sustainability and stewardship. These books allow students to have a supplemental education outside of their curriculum for these four important subjects.