Carlow NS fundraiser to upgrade classroom tech
Pictured at the launch of Carlow National School's travel voucher raffle fifth and sixth class pupils with Celina Dempsey principal, Hazel Smyth deputy principal with members of the parents association Keith Sothern, Alistair Chambers, Rosie Moore and Deirdre McDonald Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie
IN A BID to upgrade its technology infrastructure, Carlow National School has kicked off an eight-week fundraising raffle, offering a €1,200 Centre Parcs voucher or equivalent travel voucher as the main prize.
Keith Sothern, chairperson of the school’s board of management and parent of a senior infant student, explained that the school’s small enrolment of around 130 students limits their access to larger government grants typically available to larger schools.
The fundraising strategy was inspired by the success of nearby Rathoe National School, which raised over €7,000 through a similar initiative last year.
“We were looking at ideas of how to go about raising as much money for the school as possible and we noticed that Rathoe – a small community school similar to ourselves – held a raffle the year previously, so we reached out to a few over there," explained Keith.
The funds raised will primarily support the modernisation of the school’s IT equipment.
“When I first took on the role (as chairperson), I asked the principal if she had a wish list for the students. She said they had recently gotten rid of the computer rooms, which needed complete upgrades, and wanted a more mobile unit. We’re looking at getting iPads, Chromebooks and a charger station.”
Those interested in supporting the initiative can purchase raffle tickets, starting at €10 for one, through www.idonate.ie/raffle/CenterParcsVoucherCarlowNS.
There's also an opportunity to purchase more tickets at discounted rates and be in with a even better chance of heading to Centre Parcs.
