Photo taken by Syra Castillo.
L.L. Hotchkiss Elementary PTA raised more than $10,000 during its first-ever silent auction on Saturday, April 18, bringing the school closer to its $20,000 fundraising goal.
Held at the Waters Edge Winery and Bistro event center on Abrams Road, the evening began slowly but gained momentum as donors stepped up to support the school.
Attendees gather together. Photo taken by Syra Castillo.
Principal Maria Puentemejia said the funds will go toward student enrichment and campus improvements.
“We have an ultimate goal of $20,000 to help with field trips and help with teacher needs,” she said. “One of our big goals is to see if we can redo our playground.”
As of now, the event raised $10,657, including:
- $4,210 from silent auction proceeds
- $1,575 from raffle sales
- $1,200 from ticket sales
- $2,051 in garden donations
- $1,621 in field trip donations
While the silent auction and event fundraising period have concluded, the PTA will continue accepting donations for the garden and field trip funds.
Beyond the fundraising total, Puentemejia said the event reflects something deeper about the school.
“No one knows about Hotchkiss, but we have so many beautiful cultures and I really want us to be on the map,” Principal Puentemejia said.
For those interested in donating to the garden and field trip funds can donate here.
