Thanks for your input everyone. Funny thing is I am not concerned about alcohol, I am concerned about how this may limit some families to participate by becoming cost prohibited, where an on school porperty event may be less expensive for adults to attend. However our school seems more like a private school, just take a look in the parking lot.
I think an off school event including adult activities may be successful. Do you think this would foster parent involvement?
It's been a few years, but my husband and I were given tickets to a auction done by the school district. We were given two drink tickets when we entered and after that it was a cash bar. What made it hard to drink more was the cost of the drinks! Over $5 for a glass of wine and $6 for a mixed drink. Water or soda was $1 for a can or bottle.
Was nice though, not alot of drinking and those that had too much were offered cabs home.
our PTO has been wanting to do this for years, but has been too afraid. what if you do this as a byob? i'm looking for suggestions also! we are a public school too. we have done bike-a thons, which have been good, but still not enough. we usually have to do more. the "trinket" books just don't fly. parents complain about food fundraisers. we were thinking about a comedy night, battle of the bands, or a night at the races. any suggestions for us also would be appreciated.
I've heard of public schools in our district that have adult evenings where they serve alcohol. From the research I have done on this, it is very risky to have an event with alcohol served. If anything were to happen at this event or more likely, after the event as people drive home, the PTA would be held liable. And from what I understand, PTA insurance does not cover alcohol related accidents and liabilities regardless of where they are held - off campus and definitely not on campus. I am in favor of having adult events for sure - but I would ensure that your insurance will cover any issues if they arise.
Yes, we are a public school in Northeast and we can and do run event's offsite. All of our contracts have to be signed by the BOE comptroller but he has not taken any issue with the venues we have chosen.
Those of you who have off school, adult only fundraisers, are you public or private schools?
We are a public school and have wanted to do an off school property evening possibly to go along with our silent Auction. Not sure if this is appropriate for a public school.
