We got answers! 

So, what is the auction anyway, and why should I go?

The CES PTA Auction is one of our largest fundraisers of the year, and helps us fund assemblies, and our back-to-school supply drive among other activities. We aim to make this a fun night out for adults. Delicious food, socializing with friends, adult and non-adult beverages, playing games of chance and bidding on great silent and live auction items are just some of the things you can look forward to. Our incredible list of donors means there are deals AND fun to be had. 

Wait, what is a silent auction?

Glad you asked! We'll have about 60 items donated from local businesses up for bid. Each item will have a minimum and a bid sheet. If you want it, simply write your bid on the bid sheet. Whoever bids the most before the auction close wins. 

Who can attend?

Anyone over 21. Most of our attendees are parents of CES students, teachers, and staff. It is a great opportunity to get together. However, we welcome our entire community- grandparents, aunts, and uncles, local business owners- anyone who helps make CES great and/or loves a CES student or staff member. 

So I just show up to shop?

Not necessarily. In addition to silent auctions, we'll have music, games, raffles, food, and beverages. There will be a show from Kavanaugh Porter Irish Dance, door prizes, and more to help keep the evening engaging. 

I see the event is March 9, so what is all this about online raffles and auctions and live auctions and games? There is a lot happening! 

There sure is. In the last few years, we've expanded the auction from one night to a spring fundraiser event. This is because we have such a generous business community and so much to offer, but also because we know not everyone can join us live. We want to make sure everyone who wants to can participate in some way. So, the components are:

Pre-Auction:

• Online raffles: These are open from February 17 to March 9 and are replacing our typical grade-level baskets. These will be in-school activities, as well as experiences from local businesses that students can enjoy. The raffles will be entirely online. Raffle entries will start at $3. Winners will be emailed on March 9.

• Online auctions: sometimes we have so many amazing items, or items from outside of Catonsville, and so we want to open up the bidding to the broader community. These auctions will run from February 17 to March 2.

At the Event:

• Silent Auction: 40-50 great items and packages up for bid! We'll share a list as we get closer. 

• Live Auction: About 10 of our favorite items we auction off live. It's one of the best parts of the event!

• Raffles: Some of our smaller, but still amazing, donations will be raffled off. You can roll our dice for a chance. 

• Games: Money, drinks, and gift cards are up for grabs in some of our games of chance. 

• Door Prizes: Buy a ticket and you're already entered!