A now annual event, the Portlaoise Educate Together NS cuisine night went down another treat this October.
On Thursday October 25 it was a Halloween themed event where parents cook and bake delicious dishes from their heritage and both parents and children dress up in their favourite costumes.
This year saw an array of amazing traditional dishes delivered by parents and family members. The tables were two fold of delicious food to share with the school community.
This event has grown from strength to strength since 2016 and 2018’s night didn’t disappoint with the school hall jammed packed to the gills with grizzly ghouls and happy faced children dancing to their hearts content.
“This is a wonderful event for parents and families get to know one another and chat in an extremely relaxed environment,” said Chairperson of the Parents Association, Mimi Cullen.
The parents and school community are amazing by supporting these free events held by the parents association, said Hazel Byrne staff and PA member.
The Summerhill sports pitch facility is in need of some solid fundraising this school year, so the Parents Association decided to trial open a small tuck-shop in the hall.
Selling boxed juices, popcorn and raffle tickets for a small draw, tea and coffee was free but parents made a donation to the kitty on the night.
It was the first year for the PA to charge money for anything at theses free events, and went into it with some apprehension.
However there was no need as the shop sold out of goods within the hour and had to be replenished by a quick trip to the local supermarket.
Anyone who bought from the shop got a ticket into a small raffle. Parents also independently bought raffle tickets and some made donations to the fund and prize draw. Without the intention of raising funds on the night, it raised excess of €170.
Mimi Cullen expressed her delight of the evening. “I’m thrilled our little shop and draw turned out to be a huge success, it may only be a small amount in the grand scheme of things, but every little bit helps.”
The school and the Parents Association will host many fundraising events throughout the school year to help raise much funds for the campus sports pitch which is shared by Maryborough NS and Gaelscoil Phortlaoise.
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