At Day Creek Intermediate, school is more than just books and tests. It’s also a place where kickball tournaments, Color Rallies, and Friday PBIS store visits create the fun that makes school enjoyable. But with state funding for schools shrinking, keeping these experiences alive takes some effort. That’s why our principals are rallying students for engaging fundraisers that turn pocket change into a better school for all of us.

“[Fundraising] goes towards activities for you guys, for school improvements, and they can go for special activity days or rewards and incentives. They can go for a lot of stuff,” said Mrs. Fernandez, highlighting the many ways that fundraiser dollars make a difference at Day Creek. From new classroom supplies to exciting hands-on science, cooking and year-long electives, these monies help create a learning environment where students can thrive.

“They want to make sure that the kids get everything they need, so they can be successful. [They provide] more opportunities to share different ways of learning,” said Mrs. Mares, a 7th grade math/science teacher who recognizes how fundraisers fuel student success. Whether it’s hands-on kits or art supplies, every donation opens new doors to learn.

Maintaining a balanced budget is no small task. “There’s categorical funds, and there’s student body funds. There’s funds for this, that, and other things too,” said Mr. Brubaker, 6th grade math/science teacher. Without fundraisers, beloved events like field trips, PTSO-sponsored dances, or the weekly PBIS store could be a thing of the past. 

“Our PTSO sponsored dances…our PBIS store is an event that we have every week on Friday, and  we’re going to have our kickball tournament, where we’re paying for chair rentals,” Mrs. Fernandez said, showing how these funds keep school spirit soaring.

From September 18 to October 2, Day Creek’s recent fundraiser raised an incredible $50,243, with prizes to reward students who are participating. 

But it’s not always easy for everyone. “Sometimes, student interest may motivate them more; sometimes it’s hard because students may not have a lot of people to reach out to for assistance,” said Mrs. Engerbretsen. 

The prizes definitely spark excitement for many. “I know that my kids have both participated in different fundraisers, especially here at Day Creek, and they are really motivated for the prizes. For example, I know that my son asked a lot of family members to donate. And he was really excited because last night he got a big donation from his aunt and uncle, and he wants to go to the Angels game,” said Mrs. Bennett, a teacher and parent on campus.

“Little ways that these fundraising money go to help make your guy’s life easier on campus or to help support the things that we’re doing on campus,” Mr. Brubaker said. Every dollar fuels the fun and learning that make school enjoyable and engaging. Without those donations, the assemblies, field trips, or ongoing small PBIS rewards that brighten our days could disappear.

Thanks to family and community’s support, Day Creek remains a place where education and excitement go hand in hand. So, next time a fundraiser comes around, consider digging out some spare change, as that contribution makes our school year a better place to learn, laugh, and create unforgettable moments.