
CREATING POSSIBLE
Summit Educational Foundation's (SEF) mission is to maintain and enhance the high quality of a Summit, New Jersey public school education through community funding of innovative and essential educational programs, a close working relationship with the school district, and careful review, evaluation and financial oversight of supported initiatives.
SEF BY THE NUMBERS
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38 Years of Partnering with Summit Schools
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4,000 Students Positively Impacted Every Year
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$11.3M in Science, Literacy, Math, Technology and Arts Education Grants Since 1986
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$3.7M to Fund 373 Grants in the Last 5 Years
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$1M for STEAM Initiatives in all 5 Elementary Schools and the Middle School the the last 3 years
ABOUT SEF
Learn how SEF enhances
education in Summit
SEF IMPACT
See how SEF is supporting students and teachers
GET INVOLVED
Find out how you can help
June 2024
Board of Education honors SEF
with a Certificate of Appreciation

Summit Times
"Summit Class of '73 Raises Over $73k for SEF"
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM


A heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible volunteers, sponsors, and partners who made Spring For Excellence such an amazing event! Your support has already made a tremendous impact on Summit schools.
But we’re not stopping here. SEF’s Spring Grant Cycle is our biggest yet, and educator needs continue to grow as budgets tighten. From updated libraries and cutting-edge technology to collaborative learning spaces and the new STEAM lab, our students deserve every opportunity to excel.
While Spring For Excellence helped us get closer to our goal, we need additional support to fund all the impactful grants submitted.
Let’s keep the momentum going and give Summit students the resources they need to thrive! Every dollar makes a difference.
❤️ Donate today and help us give Summit schools the edge our kids deserve!
Thank you!
Melissa Madden & Heather Thomas
SEF Co-Presidents
#SpringForExcellence #SEF #SupportSummitSchools #EveryDollarCounts
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


Oh, What A Night!
Beautiful spring-like florals everywhere greeted guests at SEF’s annual Spring For Excellence
fundraiser at the Elks this past Saturday night. It was another amazing success, thanks to YOUR support!
🌟10 Generous Sponsors
🌟Over 160 Silent Auction Items Donated
🌟More Than 1500 Bids Placed
🌟70 Bottles of Wine Pull Donations
🌟Over one hundred 50/50 ticket chances bought (with one lucky winner!)
🌟Dozens of Dedicated Volunteers
THANK YOU FOR AN EXCELLENT EVENING!
PS: Stay Tuned for Save the Date 2026
#SEFGala #SupportSummitSchools #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj
jordanprovost.com 📷 credit


#SEFGala #SupportSummitSchools #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


A huge THANK YOU to our incredible sponsors for supporting SEF Spring for Excellence! Your generosity makes a lasting impact, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Can’t make it to the Elks tonight? You can still be part of something amazing! Every donation—big or small—helps us reach our goal and make a difference.
Click the link in bio to donate!
Thank you for supporting Summit Public Schools!!
#SEFGala #SupportSummitSchools #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


Can’t make it? Donate or join the auction—link in bio! 💙
#SEFGala #SupportSummitSchools #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj
Special thanks to @rockpapersugar_events for your continued support of SEF


How? Visit the link in bio to get started! You can even set a maximum bid so you don’t miss out.
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj #auctionislive


We are beyond grateful to our incredible Spring for Excellence Auction Committee for their hard work and dedication in curating an unforgettable lineup of one-of-a-kind, money-can’t-buy experiences for this year’s SEF Gala! Thanks to the generosity of the amazing Summit community—our people and businesses alike— we’ve secured some truly unique auction items that you won’t want to miss!
A special shoutout to our amazing committee members who made it all happen:
Casey Cohen, Blair Kimmel, Chantal Landman, Lauren Ruggiero, Kristen Goldman, Sarah Fitzimmons, and Nicole Alexander—thank you for your dedication and hard work! 💙
🎉 The auction officially opens TODAY at noon! 🎉
Register now via the link in our bio to start bidding and support Summit’s students and schools!
And don’t forget—tickets for the SEF Gala are still available! Secure yours now via the link in bio and join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration and giving.
Thank you again to our outstanding committee and our generous Summit community—we couldn’t do this without you! ✨
#SEFGala2025 #SpringForExcellence #SummitStrong #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj
@ldr326 @caseyc1004 @sarahfitzsimmons @nsherms @kris10182 @blairkimmel @chantalkg


Get ready to BID BIG for a GREAT cause! 🎉 SEF’s Spring for Excellence auction is packed with exclusive experiences, one-of-a-kind items, and incredible getaways you won’t want to miss!
⏳ Bidding opens Friday, March 7th at 12 PM and closes Saturday, March 8th at 10:30 PM—so don’t wait!
✅ Pre-register now via the link in bio so you’re ready to start bidding as soon as the auction opens!
Still need tickets to the event? There’s still time—grab yours now and join us for an unforgettable night supporting SEF!
#SpringForExcellence #SEFAuction #BidForAGoodCause #SupportSEF #GrantsInAction #FundedBySEF #SpringForExcellence2025 #summitnj


Get ready to BID BIG for a GREAT cause! 🎉 SEF’s Spring for Excellence auction is packed with exclusive experiences, one-of-a-kind items, and incredible getaways you won’t want to miss!
⏳ Bidding opens Friday, March 7th at 12 PM and closes Saturday, March 8th at 10:30 PM—so don’t wait!
✅ Pre-register now via the link in bio so you’re ready to start bidding as soon as the auction opens!
Still need tickets to the event? There’s still time—grab yours now and join us for an unforgettable night supporting SEF!
#SpringForExcellence #SEFAuction #BidForAGoodCause #SupportSEF #GrantsInAction #FundedBySEF #SpringForExcellence2025 #summitnj


Get ready to BID BIG for a GREAT cause! 🎉 SEF’s Spring for Excellence auction is packed with exclusive experiences, one-of-a-kind items, and incredible getaways you won’t want to miss!
⏳ Bidding opens Friday, March 7th at 12 PM and closes Saturday, March 8th at 10:30 PM—so don’t wait!
✅ Pre-register now via the link in bio so you’re ready to start bidding as soon as the auction opens!
Still need tickets to the event? There’s still time—grab yours now and join us for an unforgettable night supporting SEF!
#SpringForExcellence #SEFAuction #BidForAGoodCause #SupportSEF #GrantsInAction #FundedBySEF #SpringForExcellence2025 #SummitNJ


SEF’s Spring for Excellence is just days away, and our auction is packed with incredible items you won’t want to miss! The bidding kicks off Friday, March 7th at noon and closes Saturday, March 8th at 10:30 PM—so don’t wait!
🔹 Exclusive experiences
🔹 One-of-a-kind items
🔹 Unbeatable getaways & more!
Pre-register now via the link in bio so you’re ready to start bidding the moment the auction opens!
Still need tickets to the event? There’s still time! Grab yours now and join us for an unforgettable night supporting SEF!
#SpringForExcellence #SEFAuction #BidForAGoodCause #SupportSEF #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


As we count down to this Saturday’s Spring for Excellence Gala, we want to take a moment to recognize two extraordinary individuals who have been instrumental in making this event possible—Jodi Englert and Teal Rodriguez!
Their dedication, hard work, and passion for education have been at the heart of this gala’s success. From planning every detail to ensuring a memorable night for all, Jodi and Teal have given their time and talents to support the Summit Education Foundation and our mission to enhance educational opportunities in our community.
This event would not be possible without them, and we are beyond grateful for their leadership and commitment. If you see them on Saturday, be sure to give them a huge THANK YOU!
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj
@jmp0529 @teal477 photo by @fiskfoto27


🎟️ Get Your Tickets Today! 🎟️
Spring For Excellence is SEF’s biggest fundraiser of the year, directly funding teacher grants for Summit’s public schools.
It’s not just another night at the Elks—it’s THE night to support our kids’ education! So grab your friends, make dinner plans, and secure your tickets for one of Summit’s best nights out!
✨ An Excellent Evening Awaits ✨
⭐ Silent Auction – Opens 3/7 @ 12PM | Closes 3/8 @ 10:30PM
⭐ 50/50 Raffle – More tickets = more chances to win!
⭐ Wine Pull – You get what you get & won’t be upset!
⏳ What are you waiting for? Tickets are just a click away!
🔗 SEFNJ.org
📍 See you at the Elks!
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


Just last week, LCJ Summit Middle School came alive with the vibrant sounds of Groovin’ at Multicultural Night, providing students and their families with an incredible live, cultural, and musical experience. Thanks to the support of SEF, this event celebrated diversity through music, bringing the community together in an unforgettable way.
SEF is proud to fund initiatives like this that enrich our students’ learning experiences.
Want to continue supporting SEF and the work we do to fund all Summit public schools? Join us at our biggest fundraiser THIS Saturday, March 8th, from 7-11 PM at The Summit Elks! Tickets are on sale now—link in bio for details. Can’t make it? Please consider making a donation to help us continue funding impactful programs like this!
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


SEF’s Spring for Excellence is just days away, and our auction is packed with incredible items you won’t want to miss! The bidding kicks off Friday, March 7th at noon and closes Saturday, March 8th at 10:30 PM—so don’t wait!
🔹 Exclusive experiences
🔹 One-of-a-kind items
🔹 Unbeatable getaways & more!
Pre-register now via the link in bio so you’re ready to start bidding the moment the auction opens!
Still need tickets to the event? There’s still time! Grab yours now and join us for an unforgettable night supporting SEF!
#SpringForExcellence #SEFAuction #BidForAGoodCause #SupportSEF #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


SEF’s Spring for Excellence is just days away, and our auction is packed with incredible items you won’t want to miss! The bidding kicks off Friday, March 7th at noon and closes Saturday, March 8th at 10:30 PM—so don’t wait!
🔹 Exclusive experiences
🔹 One-of-a-kind items
🔹 Unbeatable getaways & more!
Pre-register now via the link in bio so you’re ready to start bidding the moment the auction opens!
Still need tickets to the event? There’s still time! Grab yours now and join us for an unforgettable night supporting SEF!
#SpringForExcellence #SEFAuction #BidForAGoodCause #SupportSEF #grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


🎟️ Get Your Tickets Today! 🎟️
Spring For Excellence is SEF’s biggest fundraiser of the year, directly funding teacher grants for Summit’s public schools.
It’s not just another night at the Elks—it’s THE night to support our kids’ education! So grab your friends, make dinner plans, and secure your tickets for one of Summit’s best nights out!
✨ An Excellent Evening Awaits ✨
⭐ Silent Auction – Opens 3/7 @ 12PM | Closes 3/8 @ 10:30PM
⭐ 50/50 Raffle – More tickets = more chances to win!
⭐ Wine Pull – You get what you get & won’t be upset!
⏳ What are you waiting for? Tickets are just a click away!
🔗 SEFNJ.org
📍 See you at the Elks!


🎟️ Get Your Tickets Today! 🎟️
Spring For Excellence is SEF’s biggest fundraiser of the year, directly funding teacher grants for Summit’s public schools.
It’s not just another night at the Elks—it’s THE night to support our kids’ education! So grab your friends, make dinner plans, and secure your tickets for one of Summit’s best nights out!
✨ An Excellent Evening Awaits ✨
⭐ Silent Auction – Opens 3/7 @ 12PM | Closes 3/8 @ 10:30PM
⭐ 50/50 Raffle – More tickets = more chances to win!
⭐ Wine Pull – You get what you get & won’t be upset!
⏳ What are you waiting for? Tickets are just a click away!
🔗 SEFNJ.org
📍 See you at the Elks!
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


Thanks to generous donations, SEF was able to support the LCJSMS Science Olympiad! This STEM-based competition gives students in grades 6-8 the chance to dive into hands-on science, engineering, and problem-solving while competing at local and national levels. 💡🏆
Your support makes grants like this possible! Help us continue funding innovative programs by attending our Spring for Excellence Fundraiser next Saturday, March 8! 🎟️✨
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now at sefnj.org or click the link in our bio!
📸 Swipe to see our future scientists in action!
#FundedBySEF #SpringForExcellence2025 #GrantsInAction #SupportingSummitPublicSchools #STEMeducation #ScienceOlympiad #FutureInnovators #InvestInEducation


We’re so grateful to have reached 1,000 followers in our journey to support Summit Public Schools! Your engagement, support, and belief in our mission help us make a real impact in the lives of students and educators.
✨ Together, we’re building a stronger future through education! ✨
A huge thank you to every donor, volunteer, and advocate who has joined us along the way. Let’s keep growing, learning, and making a difference—because when we invest in education, we invest in a brighter future!
💙 Tag a friend who should join our mission!
📢 Comment below: What inspires you to support education?
#ThankYou #1000Followers #SummitEducationalFoundation #EducationMatters #CommunityStrong #SupportEducation #springforexcellence2025 #fundedbysef


#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


Congratulations to the 7th and 8th grade students who recently competed in the Science Olympiad tournament! In the regional tournament at Union County College, we ranked 2nd place in the overall competition out of 15 schools. Out of the events, we ranked within the top 6 in 10 out of the 12 events! Our team will be attending the State Tournament at Middlesex County College on March 11! This trip was made possible thanks to the generosity of the Summit Educational Foundation ✨


A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this possible. Your support fuels our students’ passion for learning.
Learn more about these innovative Wonder Books by visiting playaway.com
And don’t miss our biggest fundraiser of the year—Spring For Excellence on March 8th! Purchase tickets or sponsor by visiting the link in our bio or head over to sefnj.org.
#fundedbySEF #grantsinaction #supportingpublicschools #Springforexcellence2025 #summitnj @wilson_pto_summit


We need YOUR help to make this year’s SEF fundraiser a success! 🙌
✨ Donating is SO easy:
🍷 Wine Donations:
• Pick up your favorite red, white, or bubbly (around $25 or so).
• The Wine List in Summit is offering 20% off your purchase and will even hold your wine for SEF pickup! Easy peasy!
🎁 Gift Cards:
• Select from a variety of gift cards ($25 and up) to help us create incredible auction baskets.
Your contributions truly make a difference in supporting educational excellence in our schools.
📅 Spring for Excellence
🗓️ March 8, 2025 | 🕖 7:00–11:00 PM
📍 The Summit Elks
🔗 Link to donate in bio!
Thank you for supporting SEF and our community! 💙💛


Thanks to SEF’s grant, 7th graders in Ms. Mitterko’s Robotics and Coding Class are using iRobot Root Coding Robots to learn real-world programming, problem-solving, and engineering concepts. This hands-on class is a fun change from the usual reading and writing, letting students experiment, create, and see their code in action!
📢 Student Spotlight:”At first, I thought coding was just typing lines of text, but using the Root robot showed me how my code can make something move and react in real life. It made learning feel more like a game, and now I actually want to explore coding more!” – Amelia Tulloch, 7th Grade
#GrantsinAction #STEAM #FutureInnovators #fundedbySEF #SupportSummitPublicSchools


A huge shoutout to @FiskFoto for capturing these unforgettable moments! 📸
🎟 Don’t miss out on the fun this year! Purchase your tickets or become a sponsor today—every dollar goes toward making a difference for Summit students! Link in bio.
📍 Tag your friends & save the date—March 8, 2025!
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025 #springfirexcellence2024
#summitnj


Spring For Excellence is SEF’s biggest fundraiser of the year, directly funding teacher grants for Summit’s public schools.
It’s not just another night at the Elks—it’s THE night to support our kids’ education! So grab your friends, make dinner plans, and secure your tickets for one of Summit’s best nights out!
✨ An Excellent Evening Awaits ✨
⭐ Silent Auction – Opens 3/7 @ 12PM | Closes 3/8 @ 10:30PM
⭐ 50/50 Raffle – More tickets = more chances to win!
⭐ Wine Pull – You get what you get & won’t be upset!
⏳ What are you waiting for? Tickets are just a click away!
🔗 SEFNJ.org
📍 See you at the Elks!
#grantsinaction
#supportingsummitpublicschools
#fundedbysef
#Springforexcellence2025
#summitnj


Thanks to a generous Summit Educational Foundation (SEF) grant, Ms. Polles’ class at LCJSMS recently experienced an incredible Museum of Early Trades and Crafts presentation! 🏛️🔍
During the session, an educator introduced the different roles civilians played during the American Revolution—Loyalists, Patriots, farmers, tradespeople, and tavern keepers. Students even got to handle real artifacts from the time period! 🏺🖋️
Then, they took a step back in time—practicing writing with a quill pen and ink just like in the 1700s and crafting journal entries from the perspective of Revolutionary civilians. 🇺🇸✍️
📸 Swipe to see some highlights from this hands-on learning experience!
💡 Programs like these are made possible by SEF and supporters like you! Help us continue to fund engaging opportunities for our students by joining us at the Spring for Excellence Gala on March 8th! 🎟️✨ Get your tickets now—link in bio!
#SEFGrantInAction #SpringForExcellence #GrantsInAction #SpringForExcellence2025 #FundedBySEF #SummitNJ


Mark your calendars for March 8th and get ready for an unforgettable evening at the annual Spring for Excellence Gala.🎉
This is Summit Educational Foundation’s (SEF) big night! SEF’s mission is to maintain and enhance the high quality of a Summit, New Jersey public school education through community funding of innovative and essential educational programs, a close working relationship with the school district, and careful review, evaluation and financial oversight of supported initiatives.
✨ Why Attend? ✨
Your support helps fund grants that bring enrichment, innovation, and inspiration into our classrooms—providing students with experiences that elevate their education.
🎟️ Get Your Tickets & See the Impact: sefnj.org
Can’t make it? Consider a sponsorship, donation or contributing to the silent auction or wine pull.
Don’t miss this incredible night—let’s come together as a community to celebrate and support our schools! 💙
#SpringForExcellence #SEFNJ #SupportSummitPublicSchools #GrantsinAction #FundedbySEF


Learn more about Creature Comfort at ccpettherapy.org. To support SEF and fund more grants—or to grab a ticket or become a sponsor for our Spring for Excellence Gala on March 8th—visit sefnj.org! Or click the link in bio.
#SEFGrants #SpringForExcellence #PetTherapy #CreatureComfort #LCJSMS #FundedBySEF #GrantsInAction