A Wonka-inspired fund-raiser pulled in a lot money for Farmingville school.
A Parents Night Auction at the Aldrich raised more than $40,000 for Farmingville school.
The event, Willy Wonka: A Night of Pure Imagination, drew more than 170 parents, teachers and staff.
The fanciful theme, inspired by Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, was selected by the three Farmingville parents who coordinated the event: Kim Carone, Lisa Ipp-Voellmicke and Lisa Schoenherr.
Dr. Ipp-Voellmicke said, “We chose the Willy Wonka theme because we wanted the event to be an evening of whimsy, and capture everyone’s imagination. We kept circling back to the idea of imagining what our children can do, where they can go, and what they can see.”
There were nearly 200 donated items, sponsorships and direct donations.
Parent volunteers formed a Gala Committee nearly a year ago to plan the biennial event.
Local businesses contributed the bulk of auction items, which included clothing, dining, fitness, health care, kids activities, jewelry, and spa services.
Every teacher contributed with “Teacher Time” items that were raffled off at the Parents Night. These included opportunities for students such as being an assistant teacher for a day, having lunch with teachers or getting extra recess.
Farmingville PTA President Suzanne Sherter said the money would pay for more creative programs. Recently the PTA hosted a visit by nationally acclaimed, Emmy award-winning artist Mark Kistler. Mr. Kistler’s amusing and educational program taught the children how to draw in 3-D, developing their critical thinking skills. Students will get to see performances by the Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra, and the fourth grade ensemble orchestra will have lessons from the RSO.
Additionally, auction funds will go toward new playground equipment and wireless document cameras.
Principal Susan Gately attended the Parents’ Night Auction and expressed her gratitude. “FES is a wonderful community with amazing parents whose consistent enthusiasm and generous support help make Farmingville such a terrific place for the students,” she said. “I am always grateful to be able to work with so many talented parents who dedicate their time and skills to support the incredibly valuable work that we do here with the children.”