SEF Welcome
Since 1986, the Summit Educational Foundation (SEF) has provided financial support for innovative teacher and district grants for the public schools in Summit, New Jersey. With our low overhead and large volunteer board, the vast majority of funds raised are channeled directly into important educational initiatives.
Summit taxpayers provide 95% of the school budget; the state only funds 4%, consequently SEF’s donors play a critical role in the district’s effort to maintain excellence. Summit has long enjoyed a reputation for high quality education – our schools are consistently among the top performing in the state and nation. Yet, with each passing year, it becomes increasingly difficult to provide the kinds of educational and co-curricular programs that often make the difference between a good education and a high quality education. The very existence of SEF is a reflection of this community’s powerful and longstanding commitment to quality public schools. In order to continue the excellent education we expect in Summit, private fundraising has become a necessity. In fact SEF is exploring long term revenue sources because we see increased need for support in the coming years.
SEF has contributed over $2.25 million in grant money, bringing otherwise unavailable programs to students at Summit's two primary schools, five elementary schools, the Middle School, and the High School. Our children have shown they are capable of great things, if we give them the resources and opportunity. As a community, we understand our obligation to our children and to each other. Please consider joining SEF as we strive for continued excellence in the Summit public schools.
February 2010 News Congratulations to the LCJSMS Science Olympiad team and their advisors! SEF approved a grant last spring to enable the middle school team to prepare for and attend regional tournaments and beyond. The team has qualified for the state tournament. Karen Cotter (Science teacher/advisor and SEF grants committee member) said that the group of Summit 6th and 7th graders held their own at the regional tournament against previous state championship teams comprised of 6th through 9th graders!
LCJSMS SCIENCE OLYMPIAD TEAM Alexandra Pentra, Maurice Ashley, and Rick Leever share a congratulatory moment after a successful event at Lincoln Hubbard school on Saturday, January 23. Maurice Ashley addressed the students of Lincoln Hubbard's Chess Team led by Alexandra Pentra, 3rd grade LH teacher, and Rick Leever, LH parent. Mrs. Pentra and Mr. Leever submitted a grant to the Summit Educational Foundation this past fall and received funding for Ashley's presentation. Mr. Ashley, the first African-American International Chess Grandmaster, shared his inspirational message of the opportunities chess has created in his life and went on to play 22 members of the team simultaneously!
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