Over a dozen families participate in group painting fundraiser for Mat-Su Central seniors

WASILLA — Mat-Su Central School parents showed up in droves for the school’s group painting fundraiser led by Paint Nights With Sara Friday night.

Numerous families whose students weren’t even seniors showed up to support the school, according to Mat-Su Central School activities and community liaison Gena Chastain.

“I’m thrilled with the participation,” Chastain said. “We have wonderful, supportive families.”

Funds raised go to the school’s annual budget for the Grad Blast celebration at the Extreme Fun Center in May. It’s akin to other senior celebrations held at brick and mortar schools.

“It’s just a way for us to honor their good work,” Chastain said.

The Grad Blast is a celebratory send off for each year’s graduating class. It’s a time for the seniors to enjoy free pizza, games and gifts. It’s also one last “hoorah” for the seniors to connect with their peers and advisors.

“It’s a really great send off,” Chastain said.

The 2020 graduates will have the chance to team up with their peers and face off against staff in the laser tag arena. Chastain said the staff finally won last year and they’re all looking forward to trying it again this year.

“We have to keep our crown,” Chastain said with a laugh. “It’s a real fun get together.”

The Grad Blast may be free for the seniors but it comes with a big price tag. That’s why the school holds several fundraisers throughout the year, including another event with Cold Stone Creamery in April.

“It’s expensive but it’s totally worth it,” Chastain said.

Paint Nights With Sara artist Lacy McKeown led the class Friday. This was the studio’s first time leading the a paint night fundraiser with the school, but it was far from their first time working with owner owner Sara Squartsoff-McKinley

“She’s been wonderful,” Chastain said.

The studio is one of over 300 approved instructional partners across the community that students can connect with to earn credits and follow their interests, according to Chastain. She said this paint night event was another example of how the school works to integrate the students with their family, peers, and surrounding community.

“We have activities that foster that social connection between parents… but also with students. This is just another aspect of that, making that community connection,” Chastain said.

For more information about Mat-Su Central School, call 907-352-7450 or visit matsucentral.org. For more information about Paint Nights With Sara, call 907-521-4094 or visit paintwithsara.com.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com