REF Provides Grant for Communication Boards

Submitted by royaltoneducat… on
Pictured in the front row are Royalton speech team members Ms. Chisom and Ms. Mattson. In the back row are REF advisors Shaina Gottwalt, Scott Perowitz, and Shari Bishop.

The Royalton Education Foundation (REF) awarded the speech team, at Royalton Schools, $3,500 to purchase two communication boards.   The boards will be used at the two playgrounds located at the Early Childhood Center to assist students that are non-verbal or low in expressive language skills.   The district has had a steady increase in the amount of students who are non-verbal or low in expressive language skills.  These boards will provide visual support and empower non-verbal or lower language students to express their needs and wants. 

Each board will measure 36X24 inches and includes a total of 58 words coupled with a symbol depicting recess and outdoor activities.  These boards will help bring the power of effective communication and language learning to our schools’  playgrounds. The students will experience the difference this essential tool can make in fostering positive social interactions and promoting an inclusive atmosphere for all of them.  Furthermore this will foster communication with all students, by expanding vocabulary and expressive language skills.   When a child  has the ability to communicate, the opportunity for learning is much greater.

Not including the communication board grant, REF has awarded nine grants totaling $6503 so far in 2024!  Furthermore REF has grown its endowment by $11,833 which will enable it to continue awarding grants into the future!  REF is a partner fund of the Initiative Foundation and supports student well-being, education, and activities at the Royalton School District.  Please visit www.RoyaltonEduacationFoundation.org to learn more about REF and the great things the Royalton teachers and staff are doing with provided grant funds!   Please support us by getting involved or making a donation!