About Rancho Romero Education Fund
We are a community-driven fundraising organization that supplements state funding for programs that inspire learning, enrich teaching, and promote academic excellence at Rancho Romero Elementary School.
Since RREF was founded, it has provided a way for parents, caregivers, and our community to invest in superior public education for our students. Initially, RREF enriched existing programs in science, art, and music. This need, which began with just a few thousand dollars, has grown into over a million dollars in commitments that have helped allow smaller group learning in the classrooms with paraprofessional support, rigorous academics, and a breadth of educational experiences from transitional kindergarten through 5th grade. RREF funds positions and programs on campus whose positions the state of California does not fund or require but are considered necessary for quality education by parents, caregivers, and educators.
RREF is a California non-profit, public benefit corporation. It is a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The federal tax ID number for the foundation (EIN) is 91-1796297. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
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Areas of RREF Investments
Breakdown of RREF Investments Across Rancho Romero Elementary School.
The Importance of RREF and Why We Exist
We close the gap in funding to ensure our students can thrive.
Before Proposition 13, California schools were well funded by local property taxes. However, after the passage of Proposition 13 in 1978, school budgets were significantly reduced, with cuts amounting to approximately 60%. In response, San Ramon Valley Ed Fund and RREF were established in 1980 to ensure that every student receives a robust and well-rounded education.
Today, California ranks 33rd in the nation for per-student funding, necessitating that a significant portion of school budgets be supplemented through local funding. RREF plays a crucial role in bridging this funding gap, providing essential support to ensuring Rancho Romero Elementary School has access to exceptional education for our students.
MEET OUR RREF TEAM
Kristina Zell (Co-President)
Brook Eubanks (Co-President)
Jim Kopas (Treasurer)
Ashley Nicol (Secretary, Fun Run)
Ritu Vincent (Gala Co-Chair)
Joanna Hevener (Gala Co-Chair)
Melissa Ellsworth (Sign Up Parties)
Melissa Burkert (Asst. Treasurer)
Brandon Zell (‘24-25 Auditor)
Kimberlee Fugere (Corporate Matching)
Nicole Lombardo (Annual Give Campaign)
Kristin Bartlow (Member at Large)
INTERESTED IN JOINING THE TEAM? CONTACT US.
Currently seeking volunteers for the following 2025-26 role(s):
Fun Run Co-Chairs (OPEN)
Corporate Sponsorship Lead (OPEN)
Communications & Social Lead (OPEN for RREF & Gala)
After School Class Lead(s) Shadow (OPEN)
2025-26 Financial Auditor (OPEN)
Gala Donations Processor (OPEN)
Rancho Perks Lead Shadow (OPEN)