Merton PTO Fundraiser Focuses on Library Improvements Amid Project Delays

Comedy for a Cause: Community Event Aims to Raise Funds for Library Enhancements

The Merton Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO) has announced its upcoming fundraiser, Comedy for a Cause, which is designed to raise funds for library enhancements at Merton Intermediate School. The event, open to the public, is scheduled for April 26 and will feature a family-friendly comedy performance by the esteemed ComedySportz team.
The fundraiser is set to take place in the gym and cafeteria of Merton Intermediate School, with doors opening at 2:15 p.m. and the show starting promptly at 3 p.m. The performance will run for 90 minutes, including an intermission, promising an engaging experience for audiences of all ages.

The PTO has stated that the ComedySportz performance will feature high-energy, family-friendly improv filled with laughter and interactive moments. They emphasised the inclusive nature of the event, describing it as an opportunity for families and community members to come together for an evening of fun while supporting an important cause. Proceeds from the event aim to positively impact the school’s learning environment and provide valuable resources for students.

Katie Farchmin, vice president of the Merton PTO, noted that while the school board was initially expected to approve the library renovation plans with construction set to be completed over the summer, the board decided during its March meeting to delay the decision for further discussion. The board aims to carefully evaluate the design of the space, keeping future technological needs and optimal space utilisation in mind rather than addressing immediate requirements alone.

According to documents from the March meeting, the proposed renovations would have provided the library with a modern look while maintaining its current functionality. Plans included a shared common area for library circulation that could accommodate one or more classrooms, possibly an entire grade level. The renovation also aimed to create two new classrooms for instructional and meeting purposes, addressing the school's current limitation of having only one conference room. Additionally, the plans included expanding storage facilities to fulfil district needs. These discussions reflect the board's commitment to ensuring that the library redesign aligns with long-term goals and serves the school community effectively.

Farchmin explained that the objective of the renovation project is to create a space that accommodates the evolving needs of education and future teaching methodologies. While the project has been temporarily paused for further design considerations, she stressed the importance of continuing fundraising efforts to support its eventual completion. The PTO had actively promoted the Comedy for a Cause fundraiser and its goals before the board decided to pause the project. Despite this, Farchmin reiterated the PTO’s dedication to raising funds, as it is anticipated that the renovation plans will eventually move forward.

She clarified that the school board’s budget is expected to cover the primary construction and renovation costs. However, the PTO has been tasked with fundraising for additional cosmetic improvements, including new furniture, bookcases, specialised seating, and decor. Farchmin shared the PTO’s target of raising $10,000 through the fundraiser, with all proceeds earmarked for these enhancements to support the library project. The Comedy for a Cause fundraiser represents the PTO’s continued commitment to supporting educational improvements while fostering community engagement and collaboration.

Editor’s Note:

The Merton PTO’s Comedy for a Cause fundraiser is a strong example of how parents and educators can keep progress moving, even when official decisions are delayed. While the school board has postponed a final decision on the library renovation project, the PTO has taken the initiative, bringing the community together, organising a meaningful event, and raising funds that will help create a more student-focused learning environment. Their efforts highlight an important point: improvements to educational spaces should not be put on hold when the need is already clear. It is especially noteworthy that the PTO is focusing not only on the construction itself but also on how the renovated space will feel and function for students. By raising funds for items like new furniture, seating, and decor, they are working to create a learning environment that is both comfortable and engaging. This reflects a thoughtful understanding of the important role that physical space plays in supporting student learning and well-being.

Skoobuzz commends these efforts and emphasises that this kind of proactive, community-driven leadership is exactly what our schools need. While the school board continues to review long-term plans, the PTO is already taking meaningful steps forward, showing that when it comes to education, progress doesn’t have to wait.