Morris School District Honors Educational Foundation

While their considerable financial contributions were chief amongst their list of accomplishments, the Morris Educational Foundation was honored with a plaque at Monday’s Morris School District Board of Education meeting for far more. 

“Since 1992 they have contributed $1.5 million dollars in grants and scholarships and professional development. Last year alone the MEF contributed $100,000 to the district,” Superintendent Thomas Ficarra said. “They’ve brought people and talent and resources to our schools.”

Chief among their many achievements was the one to one tutoring program.

“The tutoring program is designed to help with our struggling learners at the middle school,” Ficarra said. “We’ve had 40 tutors connect with over 100 students at Frelinghuysen. We are really looking forward to that continuing that.”

The community tutoring project originated two years ago when the Visionary Planning Board of FMS discussed ways to raise the NJ ASK test results for middle school students who fell just below the passing grade of 200 or just above it. In response, the MEF identified a group of community volunteers willing to tutor the students in language arts and math.

“The support that tutors provide is invaluable in helping our students improve their academic skills, which translates into overall increased academic success. The tutors represent positive and successful role models who encourage our students to establish high expectations and meaningful goals for themselves,” FMS Principal Mark Manning said. “It is heartwarming to see the excitement in our students when they know that a neighbor in the community really cares about them.”

Board of Education member Fran Rossoff said that tutors were still needed for the program. Those interested in applying to can email the foundation at morrisedfoundation@gmail.com or come by a session. 

“Just show up on Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. and we’ll find a place for you,” Rossoff said.

Ficarra said that the MEF has partnered with numerous organizations in the area and has awarded generous scholarships to students. 

“They continue to unite our community,” Ficarra said.

Co-Chair Molly Servais said that everyone in their organization is proud to support the Morris School District. 

“And we encourage everyone to get involved and join us,” Servais said.

To get involved, visit http://www.morrisedfoundation.org/index.php