Our Annual Events
The Haywood County Schools Foundation hosts a variety of annual fundraising events that support and enhance the educational experience for students, faculty, and staff. Join us in making a difference in our community through these exciting and impactful events held throughout the year.
Mardi Gras Ball
Save the date: February 22, 2025 at Laurel Ridge Country Club.
The Mardi Gras Ball is our premier fundraising event. All funds raised from the event support student scholarships, teacher recruitment and retention, and grants for Haywood County teachers to purchase classroom supplies and attend training and workshops. The Mardi Gras Ball has raised over $1 million for our students, schools, and employees, sponsored by First Citizens Bank since 2009.
To purchase tickets, make a donation to a candidate’s fundraiser, or contribute to the Haywood County Schools Foundation, please contact:
Jenny Wood, Executive Director
Email: jwood@haywood.k12.nc.us
Phone: 828.456.2400 ext 2117
Years of Service Recognition
Each December, the Haywood County Schools Foundation honors employees with continuous service by awarding gift cards for milestones of 5, 10, 15, 20 years, and beyond. The funds for these gift cards are raised by employees through annual pledges made at the start of the school year.
Bingo
Save the Date: Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Tuscola High School.
One of the Foundation’s signature fundraising events, our Bingo night features prizes donated by community members, businesses, and schools. The event typically raises between $5,000 and $10,000, with all proceeds supporting teacher grants, new teacher support, and other retention efforts. Sponsorships are welcome and greatly appreciated.
For more information, please contact:
Jenny Wood, Executive Director
Email: jwood@haywood.k12.nc.us
Phone: 828.456.2400 ext 2117
Sugar Plum
The Sugar Plum Program culminates in a joyful day of giving, where children from across our community come together to experience the magic of the holiday season. On this special day, each child is greeted with gifts, clothing and other essentials, all wrapped with care to bring smiles and excitement. The celebration is filled with holiday cheer, allowing every child to feel the joy of the season, regardless of their circumstances.
STEM Camp
Our annual STEM camp offers rising 4th-6th grade students an exciting, hands-on experience in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Designed to ignite curiosity and foster creativity, the camp provides a week of interactive projects, experiments and problem solving activities.
Teacher of the Year Banquet
Each year, we honor the extraordinary dedication and passion of our educators at the Teacher of the Year Banquet. This special event brings together Teachers of the Year from every school across the county to celebrate their outstanding contributions to our students and community. The highlight of the event is the announcement of the Haywood County Teacher of the Year, recognizing one exceptional educator for their excellence in teaching.