What is REFI?
The Rockingham Educational Foundation, Inc., REFI, is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization that supports learning in the Rockingham County Public Schools (RCPS) by securing financial contributions and educational resources that benefit students and teachers.
It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors of 25 Rockingham County residents. Many Directors are products are of Rockingham County Public Schools themselves, while others are former local teachers, administrators, and staff. All of the Directors share in a passion for helping to make a difference in our children's lives. The work of the board would not be possible without the capable support of the REFI Executive Director - Katie LaPira.
It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors of 25 Rockingham County residents. Many Directors are products are of Rockingham County Public Schools themselves, while others are former local teachers, administrators, and staff. All of the Directors share in a passion for helping to make a difference in our children's lives. The work of the board would not be possible without the capable support of the REFI Executive Director - Katie LaPira.
Why do we need REFI?
Educational foundations are becoming more and more common around the country as school districts struggle more each year to bridge the gap in funding. REFI plays an important role in this process by raising funds that are sent on to local classrooms in the form of grants, administering scholarships, and operating a Teacher's Supply Depot. Each of these programs is intended to put more resources at our educators' disposal and ultimately to help our local students.
How is REFI different than my school's PTA?
REFI loves and supports each school's parent-teacher organization. Like REFI, they play a crucial role in raising necessary funds for our local schools. REFI focuses on a different area of funding, specifically targeting teachers and their special projects, as well as the resources they lack for normal daily functions.