AUCTION UPDATE

The Grant Watts auction was a huge success again this year. I would by lying if I said I was not expecting a less than stellar year with the economy the way it is. We had 120 less items and about 100 less attendees but we made almost the same as last year. Our net, after expenses, was 29k!! So glad we do it but so relieved when it is over.

My favorite auction moment revolved around a stuffed beaver. We couldn't give it away last year so we put it out again hoping to at least get it out of the office. It was won as a raffle prize, re-donated on the spot in the live auction and ended up being in the middle of a bidding war by two families who know each other and decided to have a little competition. It sold for $300!! The whole place roared with laughter - it was quite a battle.

Some of the things we are able to do because of auction funds include: Jr. Great Books program, learning lab, OMSI suitcase exhibits, swimming lessons for all 3rd graders, teacher allowances, staff development, assemblies, a 1/4 mile walking track, new playground equipment, a new wall ball wall, PE equipment, ELMO projection systems, laptop computers, curtains for the stage, window blinds and rugs in each classroom, field trips, and so on, and so on. I'm very thankful to be a tangible part of my kids educational experience.

Thanks to everyone who donated products and services. You guys rock! And...would you like to donate next year :-).