We are less than 2 weeks away from the Spring Gala and there is still lots of information to share! We tried to condense the most important information as FAQs. If you have any questions, please reach out to sesgala@shepherd-elementary.org.
Where and when is this year’s Gala?
This year’s Gala is Saturday, May 18th at Jinya @ Walter Reed. More information can be found on our website.
Can I still purchase Gala tickets?
Yes! Tickets are available via Handbid but all ticket sales will close May 10th at 11:59 pm so we can finalize a guest count with Jinya.
I can’t attend the Gala, can I still bid on items?
Yes! Simply by registering in Handbid, you will have access to all auction items and can bid remotely from the comforts of your own home.
Can my friends and family bid on auction items?
Yes! You do not have to have a child at Shepherd Elementary to bid on auction items. Please share the Handbid registration site with your family and friends and encourage them to bid on items when they become available.
When will items be available for bidding?
Items will be available for bidding starting May 13th and will close on May 18th at 9:30 pm. The PTO will send an announcement when items are available for bidding.
Will marquee messages be a part of this year’s auction?
Yes SY 2024-2025 marquee messages (which are the birthday messages you frequently see on the digital sign outside the school) will exclusively be available as an item in the Handbid system. Minimum bids will start at $50 or you can use the “buy it now” feature for a $250 buy. There will be 3 marquee messages offered for each month.
What other interesting auction items will be available this year?
Our donation list is still being finalized but some fun auction items to look for:
Personalized Classroom Projects
“Teacher” for a Day: Principal, Assistant Principal, PE Teacher, IB Coordinator
Teach with Ms. Caola and Park Playdate with Ms. Shepherd
VIP Seating for the 2024 5th Grade Promotion, 2024 Winter Concert, and 2025 Spring Musical
Tickets to Washington Nationals, DC United, and University of Michigan Football
Gift cards to many local retailers such as Reveler’s Hour, Tail Up Goat, Nail Saloon, Nothing Bundt Cakes, etc.
Overnight trips to St. Michaels and Harper’s Ferry
Sign-up parties for Sweat DC workout, Paint & Sip, BBQ & Bourbon, and Mah Jong and Mixers
One ½ year of before and after care with SESSA
And much more!
What will this year’s paddle raise support?
This year's paddle raise will support IB activities and remedy budget cuts for operational support needs. More information to come!
