OWASSO —
Rejoice Christian School received a large show of support at its annual fundraiser held on April 13.
Bids & BBQ is Rejoice’s chief yearly fundraiser; the money received will help to cover school operational costs.
“The proceeds go towards making up the difference between the cost of tuition and what it actually costs to educate a student, which is about an $800 difference per student,” said Lisa Zingerman, Rejoice Middle School and High School principal. “We use this event in an effort to keep tuition affordable.”
The fundraiser featured a live and silent auction, with items from more than 160 local businesses and Rejoice families, including a trip to Disney World, a $6,500 spa from Baker Pools, and baskets made by students. The basket that brought in the most money was filled with OU and OSU paraphernalia and was made by a third grade class.
Parents showed their support by offering their business services to be auctioned off, such as dentist and veterinarian services. One woman even offered to bake desserts for the highest bidder.
“When asking for donations, we saw an outpouring of support both community and school wide. Oftentimes, businesses gave much more than what we expected,” Zingerman said.
Zingerman, who does not hail from Owasso originally, continues to be amazed at the city’s support of education. “I always witness much camaraderie and cooperation between local businesses and schools. Everyone wants what’s best for the kids.”
Bids & BBQ brought in a record high of donations this year, more than $62,000.
This money will be especially helpful now as the school is experiencing growth in students and in class offerings.
Rejoice’s senior class has doubled this school year to 30 students. Next year, Zingerman expects close to 40 seniors.
For the 2012-13 school year, French will be added to the foreign language department; science and math classes are being added; and AP classes are expanding.
“We want to make sure that as we grow, we have the funding to provide the appropriate quantity and quality of teachers and class options,” said Zingerman.
School administrators decided to add French to class options because Rejoice is opening a school in the Ivory Coast in Africa. The official language of the country is French. “We want our students here to be able to learn the language of our sister school,” Zingerman said.
Because Rejoice puts a strong emphasis on missions, knowing French will also increase students’ opportunities when it comes to taking mission trips.
Rejoice’s junior class is preparing for a three-day mission trip working at homeless shelters and the Baptist Children’s Home in Oklahoma City.
Administrators wish to thank Patricia Danley, Tani Shern, Heather Kelley, Ginger Cantrell, the entire Rejoice staff, and the many volunteers that made the fundraiser a success this year, as well as the local businesses and community members who continue to support education.
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