l parents and friends showed the love at the Paint the Town Red dinner and auction held at the Farmington Club on Saturday night. The fundraiser, their largest event of the year, was “an opportunity for East Farms parents to come together as a community and support the technology needs of the school” explained PTO President Michele Fiondella.
The PTO formed a Technology Committee last year out of concern for the condition of the computer lab, which was overdue for updating. The committee identified a multi-year plan and organized a fundraiser, called "Go Green" since it took place around St. Patrick's Day. The 2010 event raised $18,000. The committee decided to keep with the color theme and came up with “Paint the Town Red” this year since it was held close to Valentine’s Day. This year’s goal is to raise $20,000.
Last year, in Phase 1 of the Technology Plan, the PTO purchased 24 monitors and 24 computer desks for the lab, and document cameras for all fourth-grade classrooms.
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This year, in Phase 2, the PTO’s goal is to furnish all classes with the document camera systems and purchase some digital writing tablets.
Next year, in Phase 3, the goal is to provide wireless internet access throughout the building so teachers can move around with laptops.
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Co-chairs Chelle Grande and Ann Slyh and Auction Director Lauren Buzdon produced a spectacular event, attended by 150 supporters. Local businesses generously contributed a vast array of goods and services and all proceeds will benefit the technology initiative.
East Farms School Principal Renee St. Hilaire said “every teacher donated something — from after-school art classes, to ice-cream outings, to lunch with a teacher. I am overwhelmed and amazed how many gave their time to organize the event and the amount of the donations. It far surpasses anything I could have hoped for.”
St. Hilaire announced “the entire fourth grade decided to collect money to contribute to the project. They said they wanted their younger brothers and sisters to be able to experience the technology they have been fortunate to have this year.”
Donations to the East Farms School Technology Project can be sent to:
East Farms School PTO, 25 Wolf Pit Rd., Farmington, CT 06032.
