Past Special Grant awards
Robotics
Ripon Robotics had an exciting 2025 season, beginning the year as a rebuilding team with many new members. Thanks to updated radios, roboRIOs, batteries, and chargers purchased through grant funding, the team was able to compete effectively at the Wisconsin Regional in West Allis.
Despite competing with fewer resources than many larger teams, Ripon Robotics built their strongest robot yet. The drive team ranked second during the teleop portion of competition and the team advanced to the semifinals as part of Alliance 5, ultimately placing 4th overall. This success reflects the dedication of the students, mentors, and community supporters who make it possible for Ripon Robotics to compete and grow each year.
EL Field Trip
English Learner (EL) students had the chance to take part in a special field trip made possible through a REF Special Grant/Hoeper Fund award. Grant funds covered bussing, facility and equipment rental, and refreshments, ensuring that all students could participate.
The experience was met with excitement and joy—students of all ages encouraged one another, practiced perseverance while trying new activities, and celebrated a shared sense of accomplishment. Older students supported younger classmates, while younger students demonstrated resilience and determination. One theme echoed throughout the day: “It was so much fun!” and “When are we going again?”
This opportunity not only created lasting memories, but also helped foster leadership, positive social interaction, and a sense of belonging for students who often face unique challenges.
Bill Nye
RHS students had the unique opportunity to travel to Milwaukee to see Bill Nye in person—an experience that sparked excitement and deepened their passion for science. Many continued talking about what they learned and experienced for weeks afterward, reflecting on Nye’s message about curiosity, discovery, and the importance of citizen science.
This once-in-a-lifetime event left a lasting impression, inspiring students to see themselves as part of the larger scientific community.
Mental Health and Wellness Groups
Thanks to grant funding, 20 Ripon students in grades 3–5 participated in small groups focused on mental health and wellness. Over six weeks, students attended four sessions led by a licensed community therapist, exploring topics such as Empowerment: Anxiety & Self-Love, Normalizing Feelings, Navigating Connections, and Emotional Regulation.
The groups created safe spaces for students to share openly, build confidence, and learn practical tools for managing emotions and relationships. One student reflected, “I used to feel like my feelings were too much, but now I know it’s okay to feel and talk about them.” Another shared, “Being part of the group helped me feel more confident in myself and less alone.”
By offering professional support at no cost to families, this project provided a critical resource for students’ well-being—helping them develop resilience, strengthen peer connections, and carry these lessons into their daily lives.
FBLA NATIONALS
Four Ripon High School students had the opportunity to attend the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Anaheim, CA, thanks in part to funding from the Ripon Education Foundation. The grant helped cover hotel, registration, travel, and meals, making it possible for students to compete at the national level without the full financial burden.
At the conference, students competed against the best in the nation, attended workshops, listened to keynote speakers, networked with peers, and even participated in the long-standing FBLA tradition of trading state pins with members from across the country. One student reflected, “I love that FBLA provides unique opportunities while also teaching me valuable skills that I will use for the rest of my life.”
Earning a place at nationals is no small feat—students must advance through both regionals and state, finishing in the top tier of competitors. With REF’s support, these hard-working students were able to showcase their skills on a national stage while also experiencing another part of the United States.
