Anderdon Funfest raises cash for projects around the school

as well as additional supplies for the music department.

“We’re putting all new safety padding in the gymnasium,” Cowper added.

The fundraising goal was $10,000.

By Ron Giofu

Record attendance was reported at a local elementary school’s fundraiser.

Anderdon Public School presented the Anderdon Funfest last Thursday night with performances by the recorder band, ukulele band, rock

Door Prizes!

Anderdon Public School recently held a “Funfest” fundraiser, which included performances by the school band (pictured), a movie, carnival games and more. Photos were submitted by music teacher Tim Beneteau.

band and marching band. There were also carnival games, a cake decorating contest, dinner, opportunities to purchase charcuterie boards, a tuck shop and treat trolley and “The Avengers” movie.

“For years, we’ve done ‘Band on the Lawn’,” explained music teacher

The COVID-19 pandemic put the brakes on that for a few years but now that activities have returned, Beneteau said students not only performed music but the school’s leadership club presented the other activities as well.

“This year, they turned it up a notch,” said Beneteau, whose band recently won gold in the Windsor Music Festival.

The crowds were large, he said, and the school was pleased by that. They enjoyed once again having an event at Anderdon Public School.

“It’s about bringing the community together,” said Beneteau.

Anderdon Public School principal James Cowper said the Anderdon Funfest was a fundraiser for a new coating on the school’s track.

“We’re resurfacing it in its existing condition,” he explained.

The elementary school also wants to purchase “necessary resources to keep learning engaging at Anderdon”

Cowper said the impetus behind the Funfest was also teacher Randi Lamarche and her leadership club, which features about 30-40 students. They host and lead different events around the school and they are planning to go to Camp Olympia in the Muskokas as a year-end field trip. Students aiming to be in next year’s leadership club will work on projects during the summer months, he added.

In addition to Lamarche, Cowper credited staff members Antonella Isabella and Jennifer Mayrand.

“It was a giant turnout,” said Cowper of the Anderdon Funfest. “It was extremely successful. The weather was phenomenal. The kids had a blast.”

Many businesses in the community assisted by donating door prizes, he added, estimating there were over 45 prizes given away.

“We’re pretty close to covering the costs,” said Cowper. “I think we’ve come pretty close.” Lamarche said the leadership club helped create the games and the Funfest was a “leadership opportunity for them to gain a chance to be out in the community and represent the school.”

Isabella added the event was a chance for students and families to “come together and have a fun night.”