Shore’s Spring Benefit Funds Opportunities “Beyond the Classroom”

On April 10, nearly 250 families, faculty and staff, and community members came together for the much-anticipated return of a beloved event and raised over $300,000 to enhance the student experience. The evening, themed Growing Together, focused on supporting Shore students “Beyond the Classroom,” one of the four pillars of Shore’s new Strategic Plan. 

The Fund-A-Need Frenzy raised $238,560 for outdoor learning and athletics facility enhancements, including a new scoreboard for the recently-renovated Lower Fields, a portable athletics net, a water table and enhancements for the outdoor classroom and learning garden, and a new Explorer Ship for the playground. The Silent Auction raised an additional $77,000 which will provide general support for the school's programs.

Bidding in the online Silent Auction began a week earlier with supporters near and far eagerly competing for over 100 exciting items, and culminated the night of the Benefit. Laughter and lively conversation filled the Rock Gym as attendees bid on uniquely Shore items, such as one-of-a-kind student art and experiences like Head of School for a Day, as well as golf, vacations, offerings from local businesses, and more. 

Guests transitioned into the Howard Gym for the main portion of the evening. The audience was treated to a short video featuring students, faculty, and alumni speaking to the importance of learning beyond the classroom. Head of School Amber Bock addressed the crowd, sharing authentically about her hopes and dreams for Shore’s students, and her eagerness to move forward with the specific initiatives the Frenzy would support. 

During the Frenzy, Shore parents Mark Attia ’95 and Henry Fasoldt engaged and energized the audience, encouraging them to contribute. President of the Board of Trustees Amanda Jackson announced a special gift of $20,000 from former trustees, most of whom were not in attendance, prompted by their continued enthusiasm for Shore and their desire to support current initiatives. Excitement grew as beloved former Head of School Larry Griffin took the stage, addressing the community that he dedicated 30 years of his life to leading, and sharing his support for Bock’s vision.

Generous Shore community members donated rapidly, surpassing the original fundraising goal in minutes. An exciting challenge from the Katzman Family, including grandparents Donna and Elliot, parents Katie and Matt, and parents Emily and Dave, inspired the room. The Frenzy concluded with a live auction-style competition called Last Person Standing, during which a one-of-a-kind set of Shore beach gear brought in an additional $10,000. Ultimately, donations reached $238,560, instantly turning Bock's dreams into reality.

The Spring Benefit was a special moment for the entire community, and its resounding success will enhance the student experience at Shore for many years to come. 

There are many people who made the Spring Benefit possible. Thank you to Benefit Co-Chairs Caitlin Bard and Ali Spring, and to the Benefit Committee: Annemarie Baker, Sonia Brady, Lindsey Egan, Lindsay Faggiano, Lacy Garcia ’93, Kelly Kettenbach, Stacylee Kruuse, Allison Levangie, Dayna Morton, and Sara Tollerud. Thank you to Amanda Jackson, President of the Board of Trustees, and to all of the Trustees. Thank you to Mark Attia ’95, Henry Fasoldt, and Larry Griffin for helping to inspire the room, and thank you to every supporter and donor who gave so generously. Thank you to all of the faculty and staff who supported this event in countless ways, and thank you to our generous guests for making this night one to remember. 

In addition, the Spring Benefit would not have been possible without nearly 60 generous sponsors, including lead “Root Sponsor” State Street, as well as “Trunk Sponsors” Jennifer and Andy Borggaard, Caitie and John Fawcett, Debbe and Spike Booth, and our local favorite Cookie Monstah.