PTA Funded Projects

A Huge Thank You—Look at What We Achieved Together in 2024-25!

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Thanks to your generosity and support, we were able to fund a variety of grants and special projects, making a meaningful impact on our community. Here’s what we accomplished:

Staff & Student Spaces Enhancements

• PR Staff Lounge Furniture: Purchased comfortable new furniture to create a more inviting and functional workspace for staff.

• Lyon Gym Sound System: Funded a high-quality sound system to improve audio clarity for assemblies and performances.

• Mini-Refrigerator, Countertop Ice Maker, and Microwave for PR Teacher Lounge: Funded essential appliances for the teacher lounge to enhance convenience and comfort.

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Arts & Performance Support

• Disney’s Finding Nemo Kids Show Kit for PR Drama Department: Supplied materials so students can bring this beloved production to life.

• Lyon Drama Room Soundproof Panels: Improves the acoustics in the drama room, creating an optimal environment for rehearsals and performances.

• Griffin’s Tale Theatre Company Visit: Sponsored a special visit from Northwestern University’s Children’s Repertory Theatre Company, exposing students to creative storytelling and live performance.

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Literacy & Learning Opportunities

• Native Language Texts for Multilingual Early Learners: Provided books in multiple languages to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all students.

• Class Sets of Fantasy Novels for Fifth Grade: Supplied engaging literature to spark imagination and improve reading skills.

• Fourth-Grade Historical Fiction & Nonfiction Books: Strengthened the reading curriculum by purchasing 60 books that connect fiction with real historical contexts.

• Books for All School Read: Enabled a shared reading experience across the school to foster a sense of community and encourage literacy.

• Purchased Board and Interactive Games for engaging, hands-on experiences.during PR Soft Starts

• Grade Level Interactive Science Workshops led by a Chemist from Stepan Chemical, bringing real-world science into the classroom.

Arts & Classroom Supplies

• Adaptive Art Materials for Lyon Art Department: Ensured accessibility for all students by providing specialized materials designed for diverse artistic needs.

• Air Purifier & Filters for Lyon Art Department: Improved air quality to create a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for young artists.

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Community & Staff Support

• Snacks for Lyon and PR Teacher Lounges: Supplied snacks to help teachers stay energized throughout the day.

• Popsicles for Field Day: Provided a fun and refreshing treat for students during outdoor activities.

• Holiday Helper Sponsorship: Assisted families by providing gift cards and gifts to bring joy during the holiday season.

• Funding for Staff Appreciation Week & the Fifth Grade Picnic: Supported events that celebrate teachers and students, reinforcing a strong school community.

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Fundraising Success: We’re thrilled to share that we raised:

• Over $25,000 from the Annual Benefit Sponsorships & Donors. A huge thank you to our Benefit Chairs, Ann Phister and Stephanie Herrara, and to our dedicated Benefit Committee members—Katie King, Meg Spathis, Jen Havill, Rosa Scianna, and Natalie Badawai—for their incredible efforts.

• $5,000 in General Business Sponsorships.

• $1,300 through Dining for Dollars—special thanks to our Dining for Dollars Chair, Natalie Carson, for her leadership.

• $3,600 in Miscellaneous Donations from Minted, cash contributions, Bulls and Wolves games, and more. A big thank you to Meg Spathis and Ann Phister for organizing the Bulls and Wolves game fundraisers.

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Celebrating Our Incredible Community Events—Thanks to Our Amazing PTA Chairs!

This year, we hosted a variety of engaging and fun-filled community events, all made possible by the dedication of our wonderful PTA chairs. Here’s a look at what we accomplished together:

• International Night – Organized by Joel Holland, Suma Shah, and Natalie Badawai, this event celebrated the diverse cultures within our school community.

• Fall Book Fair – Led by Jaylee House, Riva, and Emily Alexander, giving families access to exciting new books while supporting literacy.

• Spring Book Fair – Coordinated by Alison Kaplan and Meghan Settles, helping students discover new reads and fostering a love for learning.

• Popsicles in the Park – A joyful back to school community gathering, made possible by Ann Phister and Meg Spathis.

• Parents Night Out – An opportunity for parents to unwind and connect.

• Screening of Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age Elementary Edition – A meaningful event designed to spark conversations around kids and technology.

• Fall Family Bingo at Lyon – A night of games and laughter, thanks to Community Event Chairs Ann Phister and Meg Spathis.

• Family Movie Night at PR – A wonderful opportunity for families to come together for an evening of entertainment, led again by Ann Phister and Meg Spathis.

• Science Fair at PR – A showcase of young scientific minds, expertly organized by Jessica Pritzker.

• Crosstown Classic Paddle Fundraiser – An exciting fundraiser chaired by Jen Havill and Laura Hewitt (HE/HO), bringing the community together in a fun and competitive way.

We are so grateful for our PTA chairs and everyone who contributed to making these events successful. Thank you for your support in strengthening our school community!

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