West Elementary fundraiser raises over $18,000

By MARGARET HOBBS / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Bobbing for apples is fun for all ages, and Madison Stewart seems to have mastered the skill.

West Elementary School was constructed during 1964-65 on a 12-acre site on Clark Boulevard, conveniently located to both residential and business areas. The land was the former location of McMinnville Country Club golf course.

Current principal Marsha Newman is very proud of the school and their mission statement — “To build a solid foundation and framework for the students that enables them to grow and mature academically, physically, socially and emotionally.”

West presently offers a multi-age program and a traditional program. There are five kindergarten classrooms, one traditional class for first and second grade, eight primary multi-age classrooms, five traditional third grades, four traditional fourth grades and five traditional fifth grades, with an enrollment of approximately 560 students.

The hallways and classrooms recently filled with excitement as the PTO sponsored its Fall Festival in an effort to raise funds for the school. Last year the PTO purchased nine classroom computers, but this year the focus will be on the outside of the building. They plan to use some of the $18,000 raised at the festival on playground equipment and to improve the school’s outside appearance. Each teacher will also be presented a check to purchase items they need for their classroom. The committee also works to bring activities to the school to benefit the students. Already this year they have enjoyed a presentation from the Children’s Theater, compliments of the PTO.

PTO officers are Bobby Love, president; Rachel Kirby, vice-president; Julie Talbott, secretary; and Dorinda Walker, treasurer.

Visitors and students enjoyed a night of games, some new to the school such as a car bash, balloon sculpting and air jump. Beautifully-designed theme baskets were auctioned off to the highest bidder. Of course, everyone enjoyed a tasty meal in the cafeteria and the night would not be complete without a visit to the sweet shop for a treat.