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Why is this Friday’s Cowboy Carnival so important? Two things come immediately to mind. First and most importantly to me, it’s an opportunity to have fun, grow in friendships and foster something quite unique about VCHS, a culture that celebrates our community. And second, it’s the way in which we raise needed funding for projects not supported by tuition.
Our goal for the night is to exceed $200,000. What will those dollars support?
Science Lab Upgrades – The current Chemistry/Physics and Biology Labs are 20 years old. A huge number of our students desire to pursue STEM college majors or careers. Updating the labs will allow our science teachers and their students to elevate the sciences to higher levels of excellence and further demonstrate our commitment to them.
Grace Auditorium Enhancements – Melinda Carlson and JD Webster have identified ways in which chapels, musicals and fine arts productions can be better showcased, particularly with sound and light. With Cowboy Carnival dollars already raised, we will have new sound equipment installed before Pippin, the Spring Musical. With further support, we will install new ceiling lighting close to the stage better illuminating our artists.
Teacher Affordable Housing – With last year’s Carnival proceeds, we were able to kickstart a new teacher affordable housing fund providing qualified teachers with an additional VCHS benefit ensuring that we attract and retain the very best talent. We need to continue that funding and desire to grow further allowing others to participate in the program.
I couldn’t be more thankful to the many parents who have volunteered an incredible amount of time toward this year’s Cowboy Carnival. The Parent Association, in which every VCHS parent is a member, deserves the credit. I want to especially thank Joanna Engles and Celynn McClarrinon for their amazing leadership. Special thanks also go to Jenn Bruno, VCHS Advancement Director, for her ‘can do’ spirit and boundless energy.
By the time you’re reading this musing, the night will likely be SOLD OUT, capped at 200 attendees. But just in case it’s not, try and buy tickets online or reach out to Jenn Bruno (jbruno@vchsweb.org) to check on availability. How else can you support the event? Check out the Cowboy Carnival Silent Auction items and place your bids.
My heart is full of gratitude for all the parents who have invested so much of their time. My heart is full of gratitude for the VCHS community. And I’m convinced we will reach (and exceed) our Cowboy Carnival financial goal that will bless our Saints and teachers for years to come.
Steve O'Neil
Head of School
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