By Melanie Petrucci, Contributing Writer
Shrewsbury – Planning is under way for the Spring Street School’s annual Fun Fair Sunday, March 19, from 12 to 4 p.m. The year’s theme, for the second year, is “Beach Party.”
The Fun Fair is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Parent-Teacher Organization. Co-presidents Mary Pergola and Erin Boucher also co-chair this event which raises critical funds for enrichment programs, field trips, technology and other needs not covered by the school budget.
“It’s a family fun day with a carnival-like atmosphere with games, fun food, a basket raffle and a silent auction,” Boucher said. “Also included are a sweet walk, the very popular tennis tubes (empty tennis ball tubes filled with trinkets, etc.), crafts and face painting.”
“Last year we did a beach theme which went over really well,” added Pergola. “We have someone on our committee who is wonderful at making decorations and we really wanted to re-use them this year. The kids come and have a ton of fun.”
One of the highlights of the event is the basket raffle. Each homeroom is assigned a theme and they are set up in advance which builds excitement. Families contribute items according to the theme and the baskets are quite impressive when complete. Baskets might include Legos, American Girl paraphernalia, and electronics.
Pergola and Boucher already have some big ticket items lined up for the silent auction including professional sports tickets. Golfers can bid on a foursome at Trump International in Westchester, N.Y. Other items include two weeks at Camp Cody in New Hampshire, landscaping and spring cleanup services and a highly anticipated private wine class for 20 at Total Wine in Shrewsbury.
Also anticipated are teacher and staff donated experiences. In past years there have been bowling and pizza outings with a teacher, a day with the principal or school secretary, and an afternoon with Mr. Mike, the school janitor.
“What’s great about [the Fun Fair] is the whole school community gets involved; there is a huge sense of community which is fostered by school principal, Bryan Mabie,” explained former Spring Street parent Cate Shepard. “My daughters are now sophomores in high school and they still reflect on their time at Spring Street.”
Planning for the Fun Fair began in January and sub-committees staffed with experienced veterans have been busy behind the scenes. Student volunteers are recruited from the middle and high schools, many of whom are Spring Street alumnus.
“They love coming back to Spring Street School,” Boucher said.
The Fun Fair is open to the public. To purchase a ticket or donate an item, email Boucher at [email protected] or Pergola at [email protected].