The date is set, the planning has begun and it is time to dust off your dancing shoes.  The atmosphere will be a festive celebration of 60 years of Orono schools – with a throw back to the 1950′s style and music, featuring the band “57 Chevy”. Dress like you’re heading to a 50′s sock hop with your best girl or fella, or wear your cocktail attire.  Either way, you will be dressed for a fun night with friends, while supporting Orono schools.

If you are interested in volunteering for the gala, or if you have a product or service to donate to the live or silent auction, please email the Gala co-chairs, Kimberly Mueller and Christina Levitt, by clicking here.

Save the date of April 14, 2012.  We hope to see you there!

The Orono Alliance seeks to improve the overall educational experience in Orono schools.  By partnering with the schools and identifying specific program and curriculum needs, the Orono Alliance Annual Gala provides a unique opportunity to raise funds for a targeted purpose.

In 2011, the Orono Alliance gala raised $100,000, which was necessary to provide critical enhancements to the STEM curriculum  (Science Technology Engineering and Math).  Thanks to all of you, the Orono students are already benefitting from the 3D printer, i-Pads and other STEM improvements.
In 2012, World Languages will be the focus of the gala’s “Fund-a-Need”.  By meeting our fundraising goal, Orono Schools will be able to offer world languages and cultural explorations to all K-12 Orono students.  According to Marilyn Pedersen (World Languages Chair for Orono High School and member of the World Languages Innovation Team), research shows that there are many benefits of learning a second language, including:

• Teaching children to understand and appreciate different cultures
• Higher standardized test scores
• Better overall grades and college admissions
• Better understanding of English syntax and grammar
• Greater knowledge of other curricular areas, such as history, geography, politics and religion

The World Language curriculum is just one more way that Orono is preparing our students to compete in a global community.

From March 1-15, Harvest Moon Grocery & Deli in Long Lake, will give customers the option of rounding up their purchase to the nearest dollar.

100 percent of the “round up” will be donated to Orono Schools (through the Orono Alliance for Education). Come and support your local businesses and your local schools at the same time.  Now, that’swhere goodness gathers!

APRIL 14, 2012

Looking to make a difference for Orono Kids? The OAE wants YOU and your talents to help with marketing, event planning, organizing, campaigning!

Please e-mail us to get involved!