Reading Education Foundation Collaborating with Participating Reading Public School PTOs

Reading Education Foundation (REF) is collaborating this spring with local Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs) on it annual Teacher/Staff Tribute Program. In an effort to increase joint fundraising opportunities, REF is partnering with Joshua Eaton, Barrows, Killam, Parker and RMHS PTOs who have volunteered to help promote the Tribute Program internally in exchange for 30% of the profits for Tributes sold in their schools.

“Its important to remember that anyone can make a donation for a Teacher or staff tribute, regardless of whether their school’s PTO is participating,” clarifies Susan Shields, Fundraising Chair for REF. “We are considering this year’s program an experiment in collaboration, and if it is successful, hopefully all PTOs will want to partner with us next year!”

The Tribute program offers parents and students an opportunity to honor and show appreciation for a favorite teacher, administrator, or staff member by making a donation of $25 or more to REF. Honorees will receive a special teacher tribute card from each donating family thanking them for their commitment to our children’s educational experience. In addition, the tribute cards will include a personal message from the sender.

“Joshua Eaton PTO is excited to participate because we believe appreciation is so important to teachers,” remarks Maria Puglielli, Vice President of the Joshua Eaton PTO. “Class gifts are wonderful, but being singled out and thanked by a student or family in this way is really meaningful. ”

By collaborating with PTOs, REF hopes to increase the number of Tributes given, making it possible for more Reading families to show their appreciation toward those who are making a difference in their children’s lives. All proceeds received by REF from the Teacher Tribute Program will go to support REF teacher grants in the 2016 Grant Cycle.

To order a Teacher/Staff tribute, visit www.ReadingEF.org or go to Create Tribute. Tributes can also be ordered by mail by following the instructions on the Teacher/Staff Tribute page of the website.

REF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, volunteer-run, fundraising organization dedicated to supporting the whole child, and every child in Reading Massachusetts. Contact us at info@readingef.org anytime!