Smile Program

The Smile Program is a two fold program - supporting "Just Plain Fun'' by providing funds for parent/teacher organizations at K-6 schools to help build community and smiles within the school; and “Learning Is Fun” by providing creative student experiences that complement the K-6 science curriculum and make learning fun. At its core, the program is intended to help Rochester’s elementary school students enjoy their day in school and have fun while learning, and give them plenty of reasons to smile.

The Smile Program was created by local philanthropist, Dave Beck. Over the past eleven years, the Smile Program has grown from supporting one PreK-6 school to supporting ALL RCSD elementary schools! REF plans to grow this program by inviting foundations, businesses, and community members to support it.

Historic examples of “Just Plain Fun”

Puppets/Theater tech items
Cotton Candy/Sno Cone Machines
Art supplies/Art room refurbishment
Flags/Banners
Library renovation/Book vending machine
School gardens
School murals
Buddy Benches
Playground equipment
Tee shirts
Events: Bingo Blast/Sundaes for Success
“Calming Environment” items
Student Council Support

Historic examples of “Learning is Fun”

Mission to Mars field trip
Science cruises on the Genesee River (which instructors from local colleges)
Zoo - behind the scenes field trip
Outdoor education support
The Whalemobile (life-sized whale model comes to school and lessons are taught inside the whale)
Hot air balloon science comes to school
RIT professor showing how to take pictures of snowflakes
Video conferences/Remote learning (examples: Reasons for Seasons, Transfer of Energy, Rescuing Sea Turtles and Life as an Astronaut)
”Learning Lab” equipment and support: Aquariums, terrariums, hydroponics, hands on science equipment and student lab coats