Science lab the goal of fundraiser

| February 25, 2015 8:00 PM

RATHDRUM - Money from North Idaho STEM Charter Academy's March 6 "Jazzed About Education" dinner and auction will transform a portable classroom into a science lab for the school's young researchers.

New plumbing, flooring, electrical work, lab furniture and equipment are needed for the school to have a genuine science lab.

"As a charter school, we must do more with less," said Scott Thomson, the academy's executive director. "Each year we focus on one item that will improve our students' experience here at STEM Charter Academy. Every dollar we earn will go into this science lab for our kids."

Vacation packages for Cabo San Lucas and Catalina Island will be on the auction block with several other big-ticket items - including a guided fly-fishing trip and a date night package with 12 months worth of dining gift certificates and event tickets. A silent auction is also planned, with many exciting items available.

The event will feature jazz music and a Mardi Gras-inspired dinner of blackened chicken, Creole shrimp and red beans and rice. Tickets are $50 per person and available by calling the school office at 687-8002. Corporate sponsorships of $500 include a table for eight, special recognition and admission to a private wine reception.

The event starts at 6:30 p.m. and will be held in the school's gymnasium at 15663 N. Meyer Road in Rathdrum.

In addition to the auction and dinner, the school is raising funds for the science lab with a raffle. A $50 ticket buys a chance to win a San Diego vacation package including a seven-night stay at Resort Villas by Welk with accommodations for six people, tickets to Legoland and a $2,000 gift card.

North Idaho STEM Charter Academy opened in September 2012. The school emphasizes STEM - the subjects of science, technology, engineering and math - with a project-based approach to learning.