Question 1

Why do we need an education foundation?

Accepted Answer

An education foundation supports teacher and administrator requested projects that go above and beyond what can be funded by the school district. We aim to fund initiatives that spark curiosity, innovation and excitement in learning. The BTEF will supplement the school budget, contributing to our district’s continued excellence as a top-tier school system in our state. Did you know that there are 165 education foundations in New Jersey?

Question 2

What about the PTO?

Accepted Answer

The PTO and BTEF will work hand in hand to strengthen our schools. The PTO focuses on individual schools, while the BTEF aspires to support district K-12 initiatives. Together, we will equip our schools with educational enrichment and growth opportunities to enhance each child’s educational journey.

Question 3

Will this replace PTO fundraising?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. The PTO will continue its work at each school. The BTEF is an additional resource that funds teacher and administrator requested projects.

Question 4

What kinds of programs will the Foundation fund?

Accepted Answer

We fund teacher-requested initiatives that enrich the current curriculum. Examples of what New Jersey education foundations have funded in the past include: TV Studio Equipment, Interactive Topographic Maps, Microscope Cameras, Orton-Gillingham Training, K-12 Chromebooks, Professional Podcasting Equipment, Wind Turbines, STEAM Lab, 3D Scanning Technology, NJ Symphony Residency, Sports Video Cameras, and Literacy Listening Stations.

Question 5

How are funding decisions made?

Accepted Answer

Teachers and administrators can apply for grants with the approval of the building administrator. The grants are then reviewed by our Grants Committee and eligible applications are forwarded for final approval by the Board of Education. We are committed to ensuring an equitable distribution of funds between our six schools. More details on our grant process will be posted soon.

Question 6

How can I see where the money is going?

Accepted Answer

The BTEF is committed to transparency. We will publish annual reports, financial statements and project outcomes so donors see our impact.

Question 7

Is the Foundation a 501(C)(3) non-profit?

Accepted Answer

YES! We achieved 501(C)(3) status in November 2025.

Question 8

I have a local business. How can I help?

Accepted Answer

Fantastic! Please consider becoming a Founding Sponsor. Contact admin@bernardstef.org (mailto:admin@bernardstef.org)for our Sponsorship Package. We are currently offering bonus benefits to all founding sponsors.

Question 9

This all sounds great! How can I help?

Accepted Answer

Volunteer, spread the word, follow us on social media, and donate! Email us at admin@bernardstef.org.(mailto:admin@bernardstef.org) We look forward to hearing from you! If you are a Ridge student looking to volunteer, we would love to have you join our student-led initiatives.

Bernards
Township
Education
Foundation

get in touch

101 Peachtree Rd.
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
admin@BernardsTEF.org

Bernards Township Education Foundation

get in touch

101 Peachtree Rd. Basking Ridge, NJ 07920 admin@BernardsTEF.org

Bernards
Township
Education
Foundation

101 Peachtree Rd.
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
admin@BernardsTEF.org