What's Happening?
St. Mary's School in El Centro recently held its annual Halloween Carnival, a tradition that brings together families and community members for an evening of games, food, and music. The event, organized by the school's parent-teacher committee, serves
as both a community celebration and a fundraiser. This year, the carnival aimed to raise $90,000 to build a shade structure over the basketball court. The carnival featured various attractions, including student-organized booths, a haunted house, a costume contest, and jumpers. Food and drinks were available, with options such as barbecue and a beer garden for adults. Music was provided by two DJs, including a seventh-grade student who ran the disco booth inside the cafeteria. The event reflects the school's close-knit community, with Norma Roberts, president of the parent-teacher group, emphasizing the supportive atmosphere fostered by the carnival.
Why It's Important?
The Halloween Carnival at St. Mary's School is significant as it not only serves as a community-building event but also as a crucial fundraising effort for the school. The funds raised are intended to enhance the school's facilities, specifically by constructing a shade structure over the basketball court, which will benefit current and future students. The event highlights the importance of community involvement in supporting educational institutions and fostering a sense of belonging among families, students, and alumni. Additionally, the carnival's success in attracting a large turnout demonstrates the community's commitment to the school's growth and improvement, especially following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, the organizers of the Halloween Carnival at St. Mary's School are considering expanding the event in the coming years. Samuel Vega, a member of the parent-teacher committee, expressed interest in adding new attractions such as pony rides and more lights to enhance the carnival experience. The committee aims to continue improving the event and increasing community engagement, potentially involving a larger committee to support these efforts. The ongoing improvements at the school, including newly installed water fountains and planned restroom renovations, indicate a continued focus on enhancing the school's infrastructure and facilities.
Beyond the Headlines
The Halloween Carnival at St. Mary's School underscores the broader cultural and social role of community events in strengthening ties among families and educational institutions. Such events provide a platform for parents, students, and alumni to connect and contribute to the school's development, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and pride. The carnival also reflects the adaptability and resilience of community traditions in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of maintaining cultural practices that bring people together.
