The Pumpkin patch is returning in october 2024!
We are seeking passionate individuals like you to keep this beloved event alive. With our support and guidance you can build on the success of the current format or create a new vision for the Pumpkin Patch that aligns with our mission. We need committed volunteers to ensure we can run the Pumpkin Patch to make sure it's not in jeopardy.
Why Volunteer with Us?
Make a Difference: This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on our community. The MEF Pumpkin Patch is a much loved, highly anticipated event throughout the community. Last year we served more than 5,000 guests and raised over $40,000 for Moreland students.
Personal Growth and Networking: Gain valuable experience in event management, leadership, and teamwork. Connect with individuals throughout the district and build a network within our organization and the broader community.
Fun and Fulfillment: Volunteers with friends while meeting new friends. This opportunity brings joy and fulfillment that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
Paid $$$ Contractor Opportunities:
Volunteer and Event Coordinator
Volunteer Opportunities at Pumpkin Patch
We still need help managing crafts, creating a photo booth, decorating, events, What is your creative idea?
If you have any questions please email Dawn Siemer at dmgsiemer@gmail.com
If you would like to volunteer for a shift setting up/tearing down, helping as a cashier, at concessions, at the craft table, or at the carnival games, sign up on our iVolunteer sheet!
Opportunities with MEF
The Moreland Education Foundation serves all seven schools in the Moreland School District. We support arts, music, sport, special programs and grants. We are currently recruiting the following positions; Bookkeeper (paid position), Board Treasurer, School Representative, Board Member, Board Secretary, Grants Reviewer, Spring 5K Organizer, Fund Drive Organizer. Please reach out to president@mefhome.org for questions or to express interest.
Moreland Education Foundation Announces
Retirement of President Melissa Rhyne
Melissa Rhyne has served as President of MEF since 2017.
April 16, 2024, San Jose, CA - After seven years of dedicated service, Melissa Rhyne, President of the Moreland Education Foundation, has announced her retirement. Rhyne has been instrumental in steering the foundation towards its mission of providing essential support to all seven Moreland schools, ensuring the delivery of high-quality enrichment opportunities and resources for students.
Under Rhyne's leadership, the Moreland Education Foundation has made significant strides in fulfilling its goals and purpose, including providing financial support for Moreland’s music, after-school sports, art, and STEM assemblies. In addition, Melissa supported board members to start the 5K community event and re-start the small grants program that allowed Moreland staff members, students, and parents to request grant funding for above-and-beyond items inside and outside the classroom.
Reflecting on her time with the foundation, Rhyne expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the community's educational endeavors. "It has been an honor to serve as President of the Moreland Education Foundation," said Rhyne. "I am immensely proud of the work we have accomplished together and am confident in the foundation's continued success."
As the Moreland Education Foundation bids farewell to Melissa Rhyne, it also seeks to fill the void left by her retirement. The foundation is actively seeking a parent volunteer to step into Rhyne's role on the Executive Board. This individual will play a vital role in continuing the foundation's mission and ensuring the continued support of Moreland schools.
"Our foundation relies on the dedication and commitment of individuals like Melissa Rhyne, and we are immensely grateful for her service," shared Moreland Superintendent Dr. Clover Codd. "As we embark on this new chapter, we invite members of our community to reach out to MEF and take an active part in shaping the future of enrichment in Moreland."
Prospective volunteers interested in joining the Executive Board of the Moreland Education Foundation are encouraged to reach out to Melissa Rhyne at president@mefhome.org for more information.
The Moreland Education Foundation Grants
Thousands of Dollars to Moreland Staff
Country Lane Teacher, Mrs. Sienknecht was awarded a grant to help get a shed for a new garden project. Pictures here with MEF Grant Coordinator Anna Chan and MEF President Melissa Rhyne.
March 18, 2024, San Jose, CA - The Moreland Education Foundation (MEF) is proud to announce that thousands of dollars have been awarded to Moreland staff, during the Winter/Spring round of their bi-annual grant program. Staff members were notified between March 7 and March 12, 2024 through dropped off certificates or in-person surprise celebrations by MEF Grant Coordinator, Anna Chan.
MEF grants were open for students, staff, or parents to apply in one of four funding categories: enrichment, school culture, education, or health and wellness. With the goal of piloting new programs, building community, or filling a key need that fit in a budget between $50 - $5,000, the grant recipients for the Winter/Spring of 2023/2024 include:
Easterbrook Discovery School’s Mrs. Link received a grant from MEF to help build her classroom library! She’s expanding it to include books written in Russian!
The next cycle of grants for the Moreland community will be Fall 2024
“I am so proud of the creativity and broad range of needs our latest grant awards funded,” shared MEF President Melissa Rhyne. “This is such an important program for our Moreland community and thanks to the generous donations we received during our fund drive and throughout the year, we can support our incredible teachers with enrichment opportunities outside the traditional classroom.”
MEF is currently looking to fill open Board positions for the 2024/2025 school year. To learn more about MEF, as well as the Enrichment Grant program, visit www.mefhome.org.