3 Cheers for Another Successful Ed Challenge Fund Raiser!

Educational Math Challenge Grand Prize Winners in Grades K-4: Back row (left to right): Jack Larson, Drew Sonneson, Kale Hanson, Greta Keil, Easton Skorseth, Avery Olson, Katelyn Laurila Front row (left to right): William Rathbun, Sophia Lukovsky, Mya Borndal, Brayden Bailey, Brandt Williams, Brock Williams (not pictured: Jaxson Acker)

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You get back what you put in... that's how our PTO works.  Volunteers and financial contributions help us to be more successful to then help the school and the students.  It's a cycle of good will that makes Hermantown a great place to be!

Why does the PTO run their largest fundraiser at the beginning of the year when every other activity is also fundraising?  (I know, I asked this question too once upon about a year ago before I joined.)  Well, we need to know how much money we have for the year in order to be able to allocate accordingly and to budget effectively.  Makes sense, no?

Luckily for us all, we live in a very generous community.  With a goal of $30,000, we surpassed it by raising over $36,500!  With the addition of a user-friendly web interface this year and our wonderful committee chairs at the helm, there was no way we couldn't be successful in our efforts.  I mean, look at those smiling faces... doesn't anyone care about the children?  HA... we all do - clearly.

5th Grade Grand Prize Winners: Nicholas Goodreau, Dominic Sather, Landon Burg

Many local businesses contributed financially or with prizes while parents, friends, grandparents, and relatives... all contributed to our surpassing of a lofty goal so to everyone, we say a heartfelt THANK YOU!!!!

With the Ed Challenge funds, the PTO will be able to enhance the school experience for our students.  In case you didn't know (I didn't when before I joined the PTO), here are just a few things the PTO funds support:

• anti-bullying presentations
• art shows
• classroom supplies
• educational software
• teacher reimbursement
• field trip transportation
• back-and-forth take home folders for each student
• new student packets
• new playground and gym equipment
• new science and math tools
• 5th grade cultural experience
• and more!

Of course the PTO still does other ongoing fundraising throughout the year with Hungry Hawks, Hawkwear sales, Aluminum Cans, Box Tops, Book Fairs, and Shoppers Day so please continue to support us so that we can support your children and their school (in the "circle of support" so to speak).

Oh, and please consider coming to our next meeting on October 25th  from 6-7 pm in the Elementary School Teacher's Lounge.  I'll do my best, as ever, to make it fun and informative - new ideas, input, and feedback are ALWAYS welcome!

Warm Regards,
Cyndi Frick, PTO Prez