RAFT Blog, News, and Events

RAFT is Bay Area Parent’s Best of the Best (Again!)

September 5, 2023

RAFT is pleased to have been selected as a Bay Area Parent Magazine 2023 Best of the Best Tutoring or Education Support Program. This is the fourth consecutive year RAFT has finished at the top of the list thanks to our comprehensive in-person and online educational offerings, including STEAM Project Kits, Maker Mobile van visits, makerspace builds, tailored educator workshops and more.

From Camper to Camp Counselor: Yiesha R.’s STEAM Dream Story

May 24, 2023

For brand new campers, the first day of camp is filled with curiosity, a few stomach butterflies and a ton of anticipation for the exciting adventures to come. But what about the first day of camp for a new camp counselor? And what if that camp counselor used to be a camper herself? We caught…

RAFT STEAM Teachers of the Year 2022

May 31, 2022

Congratulations to our 2022 STEAM Teachers of the Year! RAFT’s STEAM Teacher of the Year Awards recognize outstanding pre-K-12 teachers in the Bay Area who incorporate effective hands-on learning and/or maker education into their curriculum. Each awardee demonstrates excellence in teaching in at least one of the following areas: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, or Math. RAFT…

Happy International Day of Education from RAFT!

January 24, 2022

Today the world celebrates International Day of Education! Not only do we recognize the contributions of teachers, the personal development of students, and the hard work of everyone in the education field, but we also take today to recognize the role of education for the world. Education can unlock every individual’s potential and pave the…

In Memory of Wayne Suzuki

Nov 6, 2024 | Comments Off

We at RAFT are sad to share that a long time hero of the RAFT community, Wayne Suzuki, has passed away. Since the start of RAFT, Wayne has been an integral part of the organization over the course of our 30 year history. Wayne…

RAFT’s $5 Million Endowment: Securing the Future of Education

Oct 30, 2024 | Comments Off

RAFT has taken a bold step towards securing the future of hands-on learning with the announcement of a $5 million endowment. This fund will ensure affordable STEAM materials for educators and provide ongoing support for innovation in education. Learn how RAFT is building a lasting impact for generations to come.

Maker Mobile Highlights: Shoutout to Our Near-Peer Mentors

Sep 26, 2024 | Comments Off

At RAFT, we believe in the power of hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education to inspire creativity and innovation among young students. Our Maker Mobile brings STEAM learning directly to schools and communities in the greater Bay Area, engaging K-8 students…

Annual Fundraiser Recap: Level Up for STEAM Education

Sep 20, 2024 | Comments Off

On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, RAFT hosted its annual fundraising event: Level Up. Over 140 supporters were present at RAFT, which was transformed into a beautiful space for the special event for the night. That evening, we honored the individuals and organizations that have…

RAFT Hall of Fame | Class of 2024

Sep 20, 2024 | Comments Off

Congratulations to our 2024 STEAM Educators of the Year, RAFT Hero, RAFT Volunteers of the Year, and RAFT Partner of the Year! Thank you for all you do for our educators, students, our community, and RAFT! STEAM Educators of the Year Rebecca Balster Ocala…

RAFT Teams Up with Ross Stores Foundation to Enhance STEAM Education

Sep 4, 2024 | Comments Off

At RAFT (Resource Area For Teaching), we are committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning that ignites curiosity and fosters creativity. We are excited to share that, thanks to a substantial grant from the Ross Stores Foundation,…