While most schools take a more grounded approach to fundraising, Bethlehem Children’s School is looking to the sky.
To raise money for the small school’s scholarship program, one teacher will truly be taking a leap of faith. Brittany Pardi will go skydiving on Saturday, Oct. 25, as part of the school’s new “Soaring for Scholarships” initiative.
“We were looking for a different, more exciting way to do a fundraiser,” said Pardi, who has jumped once before three years ago. “I think the jump is a more creative way that represents the feel and theme of our school and its education.”
Pardi said the idea came from the school’s assistant director, Heather Leveille, whose husband did a similar jumps a few years ago for the Make A Wish Foundation. Leveille’s son had been a wish recipient so he did the jump to help give back.
Leveille said when staff members were brainstorming new ideas, they wanted to do something of interest to some of the teachers. When the jump was suggested, Pardi and another teacher both volunteered.
“But he has a new baby, so I think it was decided maybe he should wait,” said Leveille. “I was too wimpy to jump myself so I’m glad she volunteered.”
Pardi, who teaches the elementary students and Spanish, said her goal is to raise $13,500. This would equal $1 for every foot she falls. The school is encouraging those who participate to donate in multiples of $13.50 “for good luck.”
The school’s board is purchasing the jump at Skydive the Ranch in Gardiner for Pardi, along with a video to keep at the school for future viewing.
All of the money raised will be placed in a scholarship fund for future students.
“We’re a private school so there is a tuition,” said Leveille. “We come across situations a lot where people want to attend the school but can’t afford it. We never want to have to turn anyone away who is a right fit for our school and this type of education so we have the scholarship.”
Bethlehem Children’s School was founded in 1995 by a group of parents. The Montessori school on Fisher Boulevard in Slingerlands now teaches children age 3 through eighth grade, after beginning preschool and kindergarten classes in 2011.
The school now has 32 students and has never had more than about 35. However, there are still openings available for the 2014-15 school year.
So far, Pardi has raised about 7 percent of her goal at $885. A number of those donating are family and friends, but lately some parents of alumni have heard about the jump and are spreading the word.
“We’ve really just begun to advertise it, so we’re hoping we get closer to the goal by the end of the month,” said Leveille.
However, Pardi said she’s committed and will be making the jump no matter how much money is raised.
“I’m nervous but very excited,” said Pardi. “We were just discussing having the children come out to watch. Transportation will be provided for the school through a shuttle. Everyone from our school community is invited, but we’re working on the details because this is so new.”
To contribute to “Soaring for Scholarships,” visit www.indiegogo.com/projects/soaring-for-scholarships–2.