Public School Montessori to serve up lasagna at fundraiser

Published 12:07 am Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Parents of first, second and third-graders in Orcas Island’s Public School Montessori Program are preparing for their annual Lasagna Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Odd Fellows Hall.

Chef Geddes Martin of The Inn at Ship Bay will oversee the parents and volunteers preparing the food.

“This is a really fun community event,” said Marguerite Greening, president of the Public School Montessori Program’s parent-volunteer board.

“The atmosphere is casual and fun. And for the second year, our parents and friends have donated some impressive packages for our ‘strictly silent’ auction!”

Organizers promise a wide variety of exciting auction items with something for everyone. They have lined up deals on local goods and services, and weekend getaway vacation packages.

Greening added, that for islanders attending the unrelated Orcas Idol event, also on Feb. 7, early seating for the lasagna dinner is encouraged.

“We are even going to do take out orders!” said Greening.

Now in its sixth year, the Montessori program relies on supplemental funding from this fundraiser and contributions from parents to cover expenses. This year, 20 students are in the classroom, with all three grades studying side-by-side, using learning tools and methods pioneered by Maria Montessori.

“Our public school program is separate from, but related to, another Montessori program on Orcas,” said Greening. “The Orcas Montessori School on North Beach Road is a wonderful school for preschoolers and kindergarteners.”

Wine will be available by the glass. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $8 for kids, available at the door and from Montessori classroom parents. On-site child care will be available.