By Mark Ambrogi
Mother’s Day is naturally one of the top holidays for flower sales. Carmel Elementary School takes advantage of that with its annual flower sale.
The pre-sale runs until March 23. Pre-sold flowers are available for pickup May 8, just prior to Mother’s Day (May 10).
“The flower sale has a great history and tradition at Carmel Elementary of being our No. 1 fundraiser,” Carmel Elementary principal Megan Klinginsmith said. “We use the funds to support and enhance student learning. We have such a rich and wonderful relationship with our (Parent-Teacher Organization) and value how they are able to support the learning at Carmel Elementary.
The fundraiser has been a tradition for more than 30 years. Last year’s fundraiser raised more than $21,000. The proceeds allow for classroom grants and technology, teacher education, after-school tutoring, playground equipment, student parties, along with other needs.
“Last year we enhanced our playground with a fitness area,” Klinginsmith said. “We are also able to support our teachers with grants so they are able to buy additional things for their classroom, such as books. Each teacher has classroom library. Many use teacher grants for supplies but also literacy materials that will enhance what they are able to do in the classroom.
“One of the big things for me is professional development dollars. I’m able to send teachers to different conferences and learning opportunities throughout the year with some of the money from the PTO and specifically the flower sale.”
Flower prices range from $5 to $32. Inquiries can be made to [email protected]. Order forms can be found at www.flowers4ce.com.
Other flowers are available for purchase at the school’s gymnasium May 8-9. The store is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. on May 8 and 9 a.m. to noon on May 9.
“We set up our gym as a huge greenhouse,” flower sale co-chair Faye Adams said. “Students help the set up. We set up two days before the sale because we have massive amounts of flowers delivered, literally covering the gymnasium from wall to wall. We need lots of helping hands.”
Flowers sale committee member Heather Tosh said the students received friendship wristbands when the sale began on March 6 to encourage and remind them to sell.
